andMr. Burton asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is aware that there have been many complaints regarding delays in the payment of health insurance benefit in Cork City and County; and if he will take all possible steps to ensure that in future such delays will not take place.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Payment of Health Insurance Benefit in Cork.
99.
Disability benefit claims in respect of persons residing in Cork city and county are dealt with in the same manner as claims from persons in other parts of the country. I am not aware that the position in relation to such claims is as stated by the Deputies. If they will let me have particulars of any case in which delay appears to have occurred in the payment of disability benefit, I shall have the matter examined.
Is the Minister aware that time and again it is necessary for some of the people mentioned to make application for home assistance pending decision by his Department? Further, is the Minister aware that quite recently the Cork Health Authority sent a letter to the Minister's Department complaining about the impost placed on the Health Authority in having to pay home assistance and, in many cases, recoupment?
In view of the fact that the Minister states he is unaware of these complaints, will he undertake to ask any of his Fianna Fáil colleagues in Cork City or County constituencies whether or not they are inundated with complaints with regard to home assistance?
I shall investigate any specific instance furnished to me by any Deputy.