asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he is aware of the existence of many cases of hardship and absolute distress which do not come within the scope of the national health insurance, the unemployment insurance, the widows' pensions, or the home assistance schemes; and, if so, if he will state whether it is possible to have special provision made for the relief of such persons.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Relief of Distress.
Persons in necessitous circumstances who are unable to provide by their own industry or other lawful means the necessaries of life can obtain assistance from the public assistance authority. The cases of hardship and absolute distress which the Deputy refers to would not be excluded from applying for such assistance.
I have some letters from tradesmen in my pocket, and I will show them to the Minister later.