asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he will consider making compulsory the immunisation treatment against diphtheria for all children at one year old, in view of the grave dangers and widespread incidence of this disease.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Immunisation Against Diphtheria.
As legislation would be involved, I cannot at present make any statement in regard to compulsory immunisation. I may say, however, that the present arrangements for immunisation are receiving close investigation in my Department.
Would the Parliamentary Secretary consider the advisability of making a certificate of immunisation necessary for a child attending school? It may do away with the difficulty.
I am afraid we have no statutory power to do that.
You have not the power, but would you not consider it advisable to seek the power?
Well, I would consider every aspect of the question of immunisation against diphtheria, but I would not commit myself to the scheme suggested by the Deputy.
I am only throwing out a suggestion.
Oh, quite.