asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is aware of the hardship caused to social welfare recipients by the closing of turf depots on Saturdays in Ballyfermot, Inchicore, Crumlin, Terenure and other areas in Dublin and by reason of the fact that fuel vouchers are not issued until Thursday and Friday each week; and if he will have arrangements made to issue vouchers not later than Tuesday and Wednesday each week so as to allow persons a few days in which to collect their turf.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closing of Dublin Turf Depots.
32.
Mr. Ryan
I am informed by Dublin Health Authority that the employees of the contractors who distribute the turf at the depots in Dublin work a five-day week.
I understand that the first issue of fuel vouchers took place in the week prior to Monday, 2nd November, the date the scheme commenced, for use as from that date. Weekly issues of vouchers have continued with the intention that they should be used in the week following date of issue.
It would not be practicable for my Department to issue vouchers earlier. They are issued at the time payment of pensions or assistance is being made and it is the receipt of payment that qualifies the recipient for a voucher.