asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether, further to a reply of 18th July last, he has yet received proposals with regard to a more varied type of training of blind persons in the workshops for the blind from the Board for the Employment of the Blind; if so, what was the nature of such proposals; whether he has completed his consideration of them; and whether they are to be put into effect, and, if so, when.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Training of Blind Persons.
29.
Specific proposals of the nature indicated by the Deputy have not been received by me from the Board for the Employment of the Blind.
I should add, however, that the initiation of a training scheme for blind persons would involve an extension of the Board's existing premises. The Board has recently submitted proposals to me in this regard, and these proposals are at present under consideration.
Would the Minister reconsider the matter and accede to the request of the National League of the Blind that a deputation be received by him in regard to the entire matter of the extension of facilities and of the premises?
As I have said, this is a matter for the Board and I believe it is best left to the Board. I have received these proposals for the extension of their existing premises and have them under consideration at the moment.
I am asking will the Minister not reconsider the request made to him to talk to these people who are vitally concerned in this matter?
I understand that they have been in communication with the Board and that the Board are dealing with the problem.
No, I do not think so. The Minister has just told me that the Board has submitted to him certain proposals on which, I assume, he will act in a pretty short time but, before he makes a definite decision on the proposals, would he not consult with those who are vitally involved—members of the National League of the Blind?
The proposals at the moment are only for an extension of their existing premises and this would be a preliminary requirement for any extension of the type of training.
Do I take it, therefore, that there were no proposals from the Board with regard to the extension of facilities, as such?
No. At the moment it is for extension of their existing premises.
Might I plead with the Minister to consult with these persons, if only for a short time, because, as I have said, they are very concerned about this whole business and would like to put their point of view before the Minister?
I shall consider it.