asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether the inquiries which were being made into the incidence of anthracosis in the Castlecomer area have now concluded; if so, what was the opinion reached; and further, if he will now certify anthracosis as an industrial disease, under Section 79 of the Workmen's Compensation Act, 1934, so as to make provision for coal miners suffering from this occupational disease.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Incidence of Anthracosis.
The inquiries referred to by the Deputy revealed that the known cases of anthracosis are few. The question of provision for compensation in respect of this and other industrial diseases will be considered in connection with the new comprehensive scheme of social insurance.
Is the Minister not prepared to take action earlier?
I hope the comprehensive insurance scheme will be brought in at a very early date.
I have been handed three X-ray photographs of workers in the Castlecomer mines who have been suffering from this disease which is definitely attributable to the nature of their employment. In view of these reports, is the Minister not prepared to certify this disease as an industrial disease?
I think we can. I hope to be able to deal with it early in the new year.
Could the Minister give us any reasonable hope that something will be done at an early date?
Yes.
Does the Minister distinguish between silicosis and anthracosis?
I have an idea that anthracosis and silicosis form one sub-division.
Is there not a battle going on as to what name to give this disease? I raised the matter here on more than one occasion under the heading of silicosis. It is only a question of giving it a name. The disease is very definitely an occupational disease. I can give the Minister this very evening X-ray photographs of three of the employees who were affected.
Is it not correct to say that what is here described as anthracosis is merely one sub-division of the general condition known as silicosis which, under the relevant Acts, is an industrial disease for miners?
I do not think it would be included under the heading of silicosis. The general term which includes all these diseases is pneumoconiosis. We intend to deal with this under the new social scheme.