asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he is aware of the economic distress among retired nurses caused by the non-existence of a pension scheme; and, if so, if he will consider introducing legislation at the earliest opportunity to provide a scheme for pensions which will be acceptable to the various nursing organisations.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Pensions for Nurses.
The reply to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part, the data at present available on which such a scheme could be based is inadequate and there is nothing at present to add to the Minister's statement on this matter contained in the Debates of the 31st March last, columns 586 and 587.
If a request is made to the Minister, would he outline for the benefit of interested parties the lines upon which he requires further information in order to enable him to make up his mind on this question?
The nursing organisations primarily interested have already been asked to supply certain detailed information regarding the number of nurses to whom such a scheme might apply, the different circumstances of employment, and so on, in order that material might be made available for an actuarial investigation. A sum of £100 was placed at their disposal for that purpose. They have, in fact, failed to get replies from 3,000 odd out of a total of 10,000 nurses so that, in these circumstances, there is not much more the Minister can do.
If the Deputy applies to the Minister for a copy of the questionnaire addressed to the organisation would the Minister feel himself free to give it?
I think so. I do not see any objection to it.