Review of Offaly Older People and Disabled Grant Scheme needed, says McCormack

Local Fianna Fáil General Election Candidate, Cllr Tony McCormack is calling on Offaly County Council to review the Older People and Disabled Person Grant Scheme.

Cllr McCormack put the motion forward at the monthly council meeting as he said the council need to examine alternative sources of funding to increase the budget.

One proposal he has put forward is to outsource and partner up with a finance company to help provide sufficient funding needed to tackle the issue.

“I believe by partnering with a local financial institution to set up a community fund would support the eligible homeowners awaiting their grants," Cllr McCormack said.

He stated that the elderly population within his constituency need these grants yesterday, and the implementation of such a fund would have great benefits and cut wait times.

“Our older population needed these grants yesterday. Every day that passes is a day too long for them to wait. I am hearing of people waiting 18 months or more for their grant to successful. This is unacceptable and isn’t practical," Cllr McCormack said.

He added: “Implementing this fund will reduce delays, allowing our elderly or disabled constituents essential housing adaptations they desperately need.

The Fianna Fáil councillor has said that the council need to develop a feedback or communication system to keep applicants informed on their progress.

“We need to develop a communication system with our constituents and applicants so they can view the status of their application themselves.

“I will work tirelessly to deliver for the older and disabled constituents in my constituency and will stop at nothing to make sure they get what they deserve.”