asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will introduce a system of special heating grants for old persons who are living alone in inadequate housing accommodation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Heating Grants.
62.
I am having the matter referred to by the Deputy and related aspects concerning the care of old persons examined in my Department.
I am sure the Parliamentary Secretary would be one of the first to admit that a very useful beginning was made in this area by the Fianna Fáil Government in introducing the free electricity allowance for old age pensioners. May I ask him, when he has had an opportunity of carrying out the review which he intends to carry out, favourably to consider extending that scheme, apart from any other action he may have in mind.
I will certainly bear the Deputy's comments in mind and refer them to the Minister.
Could particular attention be paid in this very welcome examination to the system of special heating grants introduced in Northern Ireland and in Great Britain, because many old people in the Republic suffer from hyperthermia or extreme cold? If the Minister could introduce a new system, apart from the old Fianna Fáil cheap fuel scheme, it would be most welcome.
That hardship is recognised and appreciated. The examination is necessary because there are other aspects and difficulties which old people face. An examination of all these hardships would be appropriate.