asked the Minister for Health if subsidised transport is available to residents in off-shore islands who hold a clinic card; and if he will give details of the subsidy granted to such residents.
Written Answers. - Off Shore Island Transport.
60.
The provision of transport subsidies for islanders who are required to attend health clinics on the mainland is a matter for the individual health board concerned.
The boards mainly involved with the provision of transport services for islanders are the North-Western, Western and Southern. The North-Western Health Board, the Southern Health Board and Western Health Board give assistance by way of a refund, either full of partial, of the costs incurred depending on the circumstances of the individual. In addition the Western Health Board provides vouchers for patients who must attend hospitals or clinics and who are unable to pay in advance. That board also provides special flights for serious emergencies when a doctor certifies that the patient cannot wait for a routine flight.