asked the Minister for Social Welfare why an occupational diseases benefit claim, in hands since December 1977 (details supplied), has not been resolved; and if he will arrange immediate payment of this benefit to the insured worker in Nenagh, County Tipperary.
Written Answers . - Occupational Diseases Benefit Claim .
139.
: The person referred to by the Deputy claimed disability benefit under the Social Welfare Acts in December 1977, being certified as incapable of work due to blood dyscrasia. This is not a prescribed occupational disease and the claimant did not attribute it to his employment. He was paid disability benefit on foot of this claim up to 11 February 1978 when he submitted a final certificate stating he was fit to resume work.
A claim for injury benefit under the occupational injuries scheme was made on 20 February 1978 in respect of blood lead poisoning which is a prescribed occupational disease and was claimed to have been contracted at work. Inquiries necessary to establish the facts of the case are continuing and as soon as they have been completed a decision will be given on the claim for injury benefit.
In the meantime the claimant is being paid disability benefit and pay-related benefit.