asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he will state when he proposes to introduce the promised proposals for legislation to amend the Widows' and Orphans' Pensions Act, 1935.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Widows' and Orphans' Pensions Act.
It is not yet possible to indicate a date for the introduction of these amending proposals.
Will the Minister say whether he will be able to introduce those proposals this year?
I cannot give a date.
Arising out of the Minister's reply, I want to ask if it is his intention in any Bill which he introduces to provide for the destitute widow who does not come within any of the 22 categories provided for in the existing legislation?
I am afraid the Deputy will have to wait to see what is in the proposals.
I take it the Minister holds out a hope that the destitute widow will be eligible for a pension?
I do.
In view of the fact that the Minister is satisfied that there is a necessity for amending the Widows' and Orphans' Pensions Act of 1935, I want to ask if he will undertake to get this amending legislation introduced within a reasonable time.
Some time this year.
Will he introduce them within a reasonable time this year?
I cannot say any more than that I will introduce the amending legislation within a reasonable time.