Seán Canney TD, Minister of State for International and Road Transport, Logistics, Rail and Ports and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has welcomed the announcement of a new €10 million scheme to support improvements in private and voluntary nursing homes.

The Nursing Home Resident Environment Enhancement (REE) Scheme, announced by Minister for Older People Kieran O’Donnell, will provide targeted funding to upgrade facilities and enhance the day-to-day living environment for residents.

Welcoming the scheme, Minister Canney said it represents a practical step to support both residents and providers.

“This is a really positive and important initiative that focuses on the lived experience of people in nursing homes. It’s about ensuring residents can live with dignity, comfort and independence in surroundings that are safe and fit for purpose.

“We all want to see the highest possible standards in our nursing homes, and this scheme will help providers make the kinds of improvements that make a real difference to people’s daily lives.”

Under the scheme, funding of up to €25,000 will be available to each qualifying nursing home for works such as upgrades to bedrooms, bathrooms, communal areas and other resident-focused spaces. The funding is also designed to support compliance with existing regulations, which can place a financial burden on providers, particularly smaller and voluntary homes.

Minister Canney added: “I know that meeting regulatory standards can be challenging, particularly for smaller and older facilities. This support will help ease that pressure and allow nursing homes to continue improving their facilities for residents and their families.

“At the heart of this is the wellbeing of older people. This investment will help ensure that residents are cared for in environments that promote safety, privacy and social connection.”

The scheme is now open for applications and will remain open until 20 November 2026. Claims can be made for eligible works carried out from 1 January 2025 through to the closing date.

Full details, including application forms, are available through the HSE and the National Treatment Purchase Fund.