asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the widespread dissatisfaction with the manner in which the Dublin Board of Assistance determines the eligibility of persons applying for blue cards which entitle them to free general medical services and the maternity cash grant; if he will state the figures of family income and expenditure taken into consideration by the Board in determining whether persons are able to provide out of their own means necessary medical and surgical treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Eligibility for Blue Cards in Dublin.
2.
Mr. Ryan
I am not aware that there is widespread dissatisfaction with the manner in which the Dublin Board of Assistance determines the eligibility of persons applying for general medical services cards. I am informed that about two-thirds of all applications for such cards are granted by the Board.
Under the law the duty of determining eligibility for a medical card rests solely upon the local authority, and I am unable to supply the information requested by the Deputy in the second part of his question.