asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that the Dublin Health Authority refuses to contribute towards the maintenance of a person in a home (particulars supplied) or institution on the ground that it has no statutory authority to do so; if in view of the hardship caused by this situation he will consider introducing amending legislation to permit the Authority to contribute towards the maintenance of such person; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Contributions to Institutional Treatment.
70.
Mr. O'Malley
A health authority may statutorily, with the consent of the Minister for Health, make and carry out an arrangement for the giving of institutional services, including maintenance, in extern institutions to persons eligible for such services. No application for my consent in relation to the institution in question has been received and I understand that no approach has been made to the health authority by the authorities of the institution for the making of such an arrangement.
The question of amending legislation does not arise.
In the case of an application of that sort, would the Minister approve it?
Mr. O'Malley
It would depend. The institution mentioned by the Deputy is not in fact an approved institution under the Acts, and they have not applied to be considered for such approval.