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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 30 Jan 1952

Vol. 129 No. 1

Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Schools' Opthalmic Service.

asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that serious errors are likely to occur in the examination of children's eyes under the school medical scheme through the use of charts with English letters in the case of children who have been taught the Irish alphabet only; and, if so, if he will make arrangements for the provision of charts with Irish lettering for such children.

I am not aware that any errors are likely to occur under the procedure adopted for the testing of children's eye-sight under the school medical service scheme. Charts with numerals or pictures are available for use in addition to charts with letters, and doubtful cases are specially refracted by ophthalmic surgeons. Practice varies in regard to the use of charts with Irish or English letters but many health authorities use both.

If the Deputy is aware of difficulties that have arisen in the case of particular schools I will have the matter further examined if he will supply me with the details.

asked the Minister for Health if he will consider the advisability of establishing an up-to-date ophthalmic clinic in each county with a consulting ophthalmic surgeon in charge.

The provision of a central clinic, which will include facilities for ophthalmic work, has been approved in principle in respect of most counties. The work of planning and construction is being carried out as expeditiously as possible, and it is hoped that the majority of the clinics will be available this year or next year.

The services of an ophthalmic surgeon will be available at each clinic.

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