The Nursing Homes Support Scheme (Fair Deal) is a new scheme of financial support for people who need long-term care. It replaces the Subvention Scheme which was in existence since 1993. Under the Fair Deal Scheme, you will make a contribution towards the cost of your care and the State will pay the balance. This applies whether the nursing home is public, private or voluntary – it’s your choice. The Fair Deal is designed to make residential nursing home care: Accessible, Affordable and Anxiety-free
The following Department of Health web page answers many questions relating to the Nursing Homes Support Scheme (Fair Deal) scheme:
http://www.hse.ie/eng/services/list/4/olderpeople/nhss/