asked the Minister for Health if he will take powers to permit health authorities to pay small money allowances to disabled persons such as those in the Incurable Hospital, Donnybrook, who are suffering from chronic non-infectious illnesses, and who have no other means.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Disabled Persons' Allowances.
I have already given this matter the most careful and sympathetic consideration, but I regret that, owing to the very substantial additional outlay which would be involved, I would not feel justified in present circumstances in asking the Minister for Finance to agree to the provision of the necessary moneys. It will be appreciated, of course, that an extension of the scheme on the lines suggested would also involve local authorities in considerable expenditure.