asked the Minister for Supplies if, in view of the increase in the petrol allowance recently granted to dispensary medical officers, hackney owners and other motor users, he will consider granting a pro rata increase to county tuberculosis officers and country medical practitioners without dispensaries in view of the importance of their services to the health of the community.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Petrol Allowance for Medical Practitioners.
I would refer the Deputy to my reply of the 21st instant to Deputy Byrne on the question of petrol allowances to members of the medical profession.
Will the Minister say if he will specially consider the position of tuberculosis officers in the various counties whose work is practically completely stopped because they have not been taken into consideration, I think, in the recent increase in petrol allowances?
The reply on the 21st instant was that allocations to members of the medical profession would be increased if and when conditions so permitted.
Is not the Minister aware that the position with regard to tuberculosis in the country is giving rise to very serious anxiety and will he consult with the Department of Local Government and ascertain that in fact the tuberculosis services in the counties are practically stopped as a result of lack of travelling facilities for the officers and staff?