Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 10 Jun 1992

Vol. 421 No. 1

Written Answers. - Health Charge Anomaly.

Bernard Allen

Question:

48 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health if he will make a statement on a recent comment by the Ombudsman which states that legislation, as it stands, gives rise to an anomaly in that the patient on a large income, but with a dependant, will not be charged for maintenance after thirty days while a person on a very low income, without a dependant, will be liable for charges; and the proposals, if any, he has to rectify this anomaly.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Connell)

I have noted the comments by the Ombudsman and will consider these in the context of the legislative provisions relating to long stay charges which are being reviewed in my Department at present.