Vol. 476 No. 5
103 Miss M. Wallace asked the Minister for Health the directives, if any, he has given regarding the distribution of incontinence wear for children with spina bifida who require four pads per day, but are supplied with only 60 per month; if not, if these decisions are at the discretion of the health boards; and the steps, if any, he will take to ensure that sufficient incontinence wear is provided for children with spina bifida. [7701/97]
Limerick East): The supply of incontinence wear is a matter for individual health boards. I understand that boards assess applicants for incontinence wear on an individual basis taking account of their medical requirements and supplies are provided according to need. Accordingly, there is no specified quantity supplied on the basis of a particular condition. Having regard to the individual needs of persons for incontinence wear, it would not be appropriate for me to issue directives to the boards in this matter. However, if the Deputy is aware of a specific case where inadequate incontinence wear is supplied, I will refer the details to the relevant health board for urgent investigation.
