asked the Minister for Supplies if he is aware that grave hardship is suffered by members of the legal profession throughout the country owing to his refusal to grant them permits for their cars to attend courts in outlying areas; that in many cases country solicitors have to travel distances ranging from 20 to 50 miles to perform their professional duties; that this has resulted not alone in depriving the public of the profession's services but also in depriving the older members of the profession, who cannot cycle, of their livelihood; and, if so, if he is prepared to place them in the same category as doctors, dentists, veterinary surgeons, district justices and State solicitors.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Petrol Supplies for Solicitors.
I am not aware that grave hardship on the lines and to the extent suggested by the Deputy is suffered by members of the legal profession owing to the absence of their private cars for attending courts in outlying areas.
I am aware that members of the community generally, whose professions or occupations involve travelling, are suffering inconvenience from the present restricted transport services, but I am not in a position to grant facilities to members of the legal profession which are not available to the public generally. Any member of the legal profession will be granted a permit to operate a private motor vehicle equipped with gas producer plant.
Will the Minister reconsider the case of men over 50 years of age throughout-the country who would be comparatively few in number?
I am not prepared to agree that members of the legal profession have any greater claim than other persons whose professions and occupations involve travelling.