asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he is now in a position to state the results of the inquiry (which he previously indicated was being made) into the provision of free footwear, by way of vouchers, to children of necessitous parents.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Free Footwear for Children.
It emerged from the investigations which were made in connection with the suggested scheme of footwear that the position was dependent to a very great extent upon securing an increase in the present supply. The Department of Supplies have since arranged with the manufacturers for an increase in the production of children's heavy boots and shoes. The other aspects of the problem are still under consideration.
Mr. Larkin
The Minister will recall that on a former occasion when he replied to a similar question, he indicated that public assistance officers had a certain power in respect to the issue of relief in kind. Subsequently I asked the Parliamentary Secretary if he would draw the attention of public assistance officers to the fact that they possessed these powers, and he stated that he did not think it necessary to do so. In the meantime, I find that a number of applications was made to public assistance officers in Dublin, and they stated that they had not these powers. Would the Minister now consider drawing their attention to the fact that they possess these powers?
I do not think it is necessary for me to draw their attention to the fact. If the Deputy is aware of any cases in which the public assistance officers indicated that they had no power, I will have the matter investigated.
Mr. Larkin
I can give the Minister cases in Dublin.
Perhaps the Deputy would give me some examples from Dublin for a start which would help me to make a beginning.