asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health in connection with the Dublin County Borough Fuel Scheme whether, in view of the fact that persons receiving one cwt. of turf per week under the scheme will have to make their own arrangements for conveying the turf to their homes, he will ask the commissioners to devise a form of voucher which will enable persons who have neither sacks nor conveyances, or who are living alone and are old and incapacitated, to take home the turf in instalments, as otherwise they may have to pay exorbitant charges for transport which will neutralise the value of the concession.
Ceisteanna.—Questions. Oral Answers. - Dublin City Fuel Scheme.
At the inception of the scheme it was suggested in the case of old and infirm persons that if it was not possible for them to arrange to take delivery at the fuel depôts, arrangements should be made with various charitable organisations to assist in the delivery of turf. The Dublin Union Commissioners have adopted this suggestion, and they will, I feel sure, do everything in their power to facilitate such persons in bringing fuel to their homes. It should, however, be realised that the operation of this scheme entails considerable organisation, and difficulties may arise from time to time due to the transport position and other circumstances beyond control. The commissioners may be relied upon to do their utmost to remedy any defects in the scheme. At the same time, my present information is that it is working reasonably well. There are 19 fuel depôts established in the city, and the distance the turf has to be transported by the recipients is not unduly long.