asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he has issued a circular to all local authorities stating that all extra cash allowances will be discontinued from March 26th; and, if so, what he intends giving instead of these allowances.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Extra Cash Allowances.
No circular on the lines indicated by the Deputy has been issued by my Department.
I have been shown a circular that was sent to the home assistance officer in my home town and he warned all the people that on the 26th March their allowances would be reduced. I have a copy which I will show to the Minister.
I can assure the Deputy that the circular did not issue from my Department. Secondly, the local authority is bound, under the Public Assistance Act, 1939, to provide adequate relief for destitute persons. It has a statutory obligation to discharge its responsibility in that connection and should do so. However, I have no legislative power to compel it to do so but, in so far as I can use any influence with the local authority, I will endeavour to induce the local authority to measure up to its statutory obligation. If the Deputy will let me have a copy of the circular, I will be glad to examine it sympathetically.