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full demand for 24 centres (roughly 1 centre for every

250,000 population) by 1990. In addition social centres

for the elderly are planned on the basis of one for 30,000

of the general population. On present plans, the total

estimated requirement of 204 centres by 1995 should be met

provided the necessary resources can be made available.

3.

For those whose primary need is decent accommod-

ation, a variety of arrangements exist in both public and

private housing, the latter financed from the Gold Coin

Suspense Account. In addition there are some 1,400 places

in hostels operated by welfare agencies, with a further

2,000 places planned over the next ten years.

1.

4.

Plans for the provision of homes for the aged

(including hostels which provide meals) and for care and

attention homes are based on ratio of ten places per

thousand and four places per thousand people over 60

respectively. On this basis our present plans provide

for the shortfall in both these areas to be met by 1990.

The Director of Social Welfare is however reviewing

these ratios to establish whether they are still appropriate.

5.

For infirmaries the planning ratio is 5 beds for

every 1,000 people over 65. Plans are to expand the

present total of 1,060 infirmary beds threefold during

the next ten years. In addition there will be geriatric

/wards.