asked the Minister for Health if he will consider formulating a scheme whereby regular supplies of insulin will be made available without cost to all diabetics.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Free Insulin Supplies.
Diabetic sufferers who are in the lower income group are entitled to free supplies of insulin under Section 14 of the Health Act, 1953. I am satisfied that a reasonable application of the provisions of that section should prevent any hardship in regard to insulin supplies for patients. In the circumstances, I do not consider it necessary to introduce the special legislation which would be required if free supplies of insulin were to be provided for all diabetic sufferers irrespective of means.