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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 21 Mar 1944

Vol. 93 No. 1

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - National Health Insurance.

asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if his attention has been called to the fact that a considerable number of non-manual workers have suffered the loss of their benefit rights under the National Health Insurance Acts because of their remuneration being brought above the sum of £250 per annum as a result of bonuses granted under the provisions of Emergency Powers (No. 260) Order, 1943; and, if so, whether, in view of the hardship which this involves for the workers concerned, he is prepared to take steps to remedy the grievance by ensuring that in such circumstances they shall not be excluded from the provisions of the National Health Acts.

Representations on this matter were received from Cumann an Arachais Náisiúnta ar Shláinte. As regards the latter part of the question non-manual workers are not automatically excluded from health insurance when their remuneration exceeds £250 a year. Such persons on ceasing to be compulsorily insurable remain insured persons, and retain any title to benefit arising out of their previous insurance, for a period of 12 calendar months from the date of the last contribution paid in respect of them. This period of 12 months is extended by any periods of incapacity, of which due notice is given, which occur whilst they remain insured persons. It is open to the persons affected, if they so desire, to become voluntary contributors provided they satisfy the necessary conditions. By doing so they will safeguard their rights to future benefits under the Acts.

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