asked the Minister for Health if any disputes between the members and the managers of health authorities concerning the fixing of maximum charges for certain classes of persons under section 15 of the Health Act, 1953, as amended, have been referred to him for determination; if so, if he will state the issues involved in such disputes; when the disputes were notified to his Department; and when determinations are likely to be made.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Disputed Health Act Charges.
9.
One dispute of this description was referred to me from the Dublin Health Authority on 17th January last.
Earlier that month the Authority passed a resolution in relation to charges for institutional services under Section 15 of the Health Act, 1953. The resolution read:—
"That the maximum charge of 10/- per day be not applied to married persons who are also insured persons (where the spouse is not also employed) and that the maximum charge for such persons be not more than 6/- per day."
The Chief Executive Officer declined to agree to implement the terms of this resolution and gave the reasons for his decision.
The Health Authority then adopted a resolution to the effect that the dispute be referred for determination by me under the terms of Section 4 of the City and County Management (Amendment) Act, 1955.
I am at present considering this matter and hope to give my decision in the near future.