asked the Minister for Health if, in view of a circular issued by the Eastern Health Board to some voluntary organisations on 18 April 1985, he approves of a policy for voluntary social service organisations to collect charges from their clients; whether he approves of pressure being brought to bear if such charges were not collected; and if there is a charge of policy in this area.
Written Answers. - Income and Expenditure of Voluntary Organisations.
74.
The circular referred to was sent by the Eastern Health Board to most voluntary organisations funded by the Board. It informs them of restrictions on the board's funds for the current year and advises them not to incur expenditure in anticipation of additional funding by the board. The circular also advises the voluntary organisations to ensure that if at all possible a greater proportion of their expenditure is met by income from sources other than the board and mentions the importance of ensuring that realistic contributions are collected from those availing of their services who can afford to make a contribution.
The Eastern Health Board have assured me that no pressure has been brought to bear on any organisation with regard to the recommendations contained in the circular. The circular does not indicate a change of policy on the part of the board as it merely reiterates the contents of an earlier circular issued in October 1982.
The action of the health board arises, of course, from current restrictions on public spending and is a necessary measure to ensure the continued maintenance of certain voluntary services for persons with needs in the health area.