asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether he is aware that the majority of the persons in Galway City receiving milk vouchers under the recently inaugurated food allowances scheme are unable to get milk in exchange for their vouchers; and whether he will consider the setting up of a milk depôt in the city for the purpose of supplying these and other necessitous persons.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Supply of Milk in Galway City.
No representations have been received in my Department from the Galway Board of Health in regard to this matter nor have any representations been made either by the Board of Health or the Corporation of Galway in connection with the distribution of milk under the free milk scheme. The special food allowances scheme applicable to certain persons resident in urban areas who are receiving assistance from public funds are under the control of the Department of Industry and Commerce and I have brought the Deputy's representations to the notice of that Department.
I addressed my question to the Minister for Industry and Commerce and I do not know why it appears here as being addressed to the Minister for Local Government. Perhaps the Minister for Industry and Commerce will give us some information about the scheme? Is he aware that in some instances people are getting half their supply of milk on surrender of their vouchers? What steps are being taken to ensure that the full amount of milk stipulated on the vouchers is supplied? I know of cases where a voucher for 21 pints of milk was issued and only nine were supplied. Persons get no milk at all until they surrender the voucher.
The matter has only now been referred to the Minister for Industry and Commerce. I presume that when he has had an opportunity of examining the position he will communicate with the Deputy.