asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that several diabetic applicants for free insulin are experiencing difficulty in having supplies issued to them; and if he will therefore clarify his recent statement on the matter and ensure that all health authorities facilitate applicants with the minimum of delay.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Free Insulin Supplies.
34.
As indicated in a reply to Deputy Moore on 1st June, details of the scheme recently announced to enable persons suffering from diabetes to obtain free supplies of insulin and other drugs required in the control of the disease will be announced very shortly. The scheme will come into operation on 1st July. In the meantime, any diabetic who feels that it is a hardship to have to pay for insulin or other drugs should send particulars to me or to my Department for attention.
Will the Minister in future ensure when making an announcement of this kind that it is made clear that the scheme is not yet in operation and, if he can, announce the date when it will come into operation so as to avoid considerable confusion, which he and some of his Government colleagues do not like? Will he avoid confusion by making statements of details of schemes?