asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether, in view of the report of the actuary on the valuation of the funds of the National Health Insurance Society as at 31st December, 1943, he is in a position to state what arrangements are being made concerning the new scale of additional benefits which is due to operate as from 1st April, 1947; whether he can state how the disposable surplus of £250,000 per annum will be allocated as between the various types of additional benefit; and whether, in this regard, he will bear in mind when approving plans for the allocation of the surplus, the especially beneficial character of dental benefits.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - National Health Insurance Additional Benefits.
The National Health Insurance Act, 1942, provides that the National Health Insurance Society may prepare and submit for Ministerial sanction schemes of additional benefits. No such scheme has yet been submitted by the society in respect of the second additional benefit period commencing on 1st April next. It is understood that the preparation of a scheme by the society is in progress but it is not possible at this stage to indicate the nature of the benefits proposed to be provided nor the amount to be allocated to each benefit. The desirability of making adequate provision for dental treatment is appreciated and this matter will receive full consideration when the society's proposals are received.