asked the Minister for Health whether he has yet made a decision on the question of having the allowances paid to tuberculosis patients adjusted to meet the rise in the cost of living since 1952, and, if so, if he will state the nature of such decision.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tuberculosis Patients' Allowances.
A decision to revise the rates of allowances payable to tuberculosis patients under the Infectious Diseases (Maintenance) Regulations, 1952, has not been made; the matter is being kept under review.
Is it not a fact that the Minister received a deputation on the 3rd May in connection with these allowances and that he gave a promise to the members of that deputation that he would discuss the matter as soon as possible with members of the Government and that, further, he promised he would give the matter sympathetic consideration? In view of the fact that over two months have elapsed since that claim was made, does the Minister not now think that the time is ripe when a decision one way or the other should be made in regard to these people?
As I have indicated, the matter is being kept under review.
Is it because these people are helpless and sick and have no strong, well organised union behind them that the Minister feels he can brush aside their claims and that he can justify the present benefits paid in view of the increase in the cost of living?