asked the Minister for Social Welfare if in order to protect the integrity of the family unit as the basis of our society, he will take steps, if necessary by the introduction of legislation, to provide that a grant comparable to that paid to the relevant authority controlling the homes, convents and industrial schools to which children are sent will in future be paid to the destitute parents of children who are at present removed from the care of their parents in the family and sent to live a community life in such homes, convents and industrial schools.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Grants for Destitute Parents.
8.
In so far as I have been able to interpret the Deputy's intention, it would appear that he desires that the capitation now paid to institutions in respect of children committed to their care who may have destitute parents alive, should be paid over to these latter. I must say that I fail to see how such an arrangement would be to the advantage of the child or children concerned and, therefore, I do not contemplate action which would make it possible.
Is it not a fact that if four children are committed to an industrial school it costs the State anything between £6 and £10 per week to maintain them there? Would it not be much more beneficial and desirable if that money, or a substantial portion of it, were paid to the parents in order to allow the children to remain with their parents and avoid the necessity of breaking up the family circle?
First of all, there is no certainty that if the money were paid to destitute parents they would be able to maintain themselves and their children. Secondly, there is no guarantee whatever that the money paid would be devoted to the care of the children.