Vol. 489 No. 6
416 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will allocate funding to a group (details supplied) in Dublin 12 who wish to research its case against tobacco companies in relation to damage to health. [8796/98]
437 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has made a decision to provide funding assistance for the smokers group proposed against action tobacco companies in relation to the impact of tobacco on their health; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8866/98]
I propose to answer Questions Nos. 416 and 437 together.
There are a number of cases being brought against the tobacco industry by law firms on behalf of a large number of clients. Financial assistance is not being given by the State to any law firm in respect of specific actions on behalf of their clients. However, I am looking at other ways in which my Department may be of assistance and how the public interest might best be served in this matter.
