asked the Minister for Health if he will state in respect of the most recent year for which figures are available the expenditure by his Department under the Disabled Persons (Rehabilitation) Regulations, 1963, made under section 50 of the Health Act, 1953, in relation to persons suffering from employment injuries.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Disabled Persons Rehabilitation Regulations.
50.
Mr. O'Malley
I have made inquiries on this matter from the health authorities but I have considered it necessary to make a further approach to them for additional information. If the Deputy would be kind enough to repeat the question in a few weeks time, I should be able to provide the information.
That will be the middle of the summer holidays. Would the Minister say from the inquiries he has made whether or not money has been expended?
Mr. O'Malley
I appreciate that it is most unusual to put the Deputy off a second time, but I think it desirable that I should be fortified by the additional information which I am now seeking—a breakdown of certain figures—in order to answer the Deputy in an adequate manner.
Even if I have to wait until November or September.
Early September.
Mr. O'Malley
The trouble about the Deputy's question is that a global amount was given last year for all local authorities for disabled persons' allowances. It amounted to roughly £11,000 and a breakdown for any specific period in relation to persons suffering from employment injuries will be sought.
Does the Minister agree that the inquiries will cost a good lot more than in fact is expended under this heading?
Mr. O'Malley
The context of this question is tied up with social welfare as well.
(Interruptions.)