asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether his attention has been drawn to a statement made on 28th May, 1963 by the Master of the Coombe Hospital, Dublin, as to the high infant mortality rate in this country, which he believed to be due to lack of sufficient nourishment for mothers during pregnancy and of adequate clothing for babies; and whether, with a view to reducing this mortality rate, he will take steps to improve the existing social welfare benefits and assistance to mothers and infants.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Infant Mortality Rate.
23.
An Tánaiste has dealt with the implication contained in the first part of the question.
As the Deputy is no doubt aware, proposed increases in social welfare benefit and assistance payments, including children's allowances, which will in future be payable in respect of the first child in every family, have already been announced. Insured women, in particular, will benefit by the increase from £2 to £2 5s. a week in the rate of maternity allowance which is payable during the six weeks immediately preceding and following confinement.