asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he is aware of the complications that arise, and of the inconvenience caused in connection with the committal of lunatics whose relatives are unable to pay the cost of conveyance to mental hospitals, and if he will introduce legislation to remove the present apparent anomalies.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - COMMITTAL OF LUNATICS.
The cost of certification and conveyance of lunatics committed to mental hospitals under the Lunacy Act, 1867, is usually defrayed out of the rates. The question of amending the law so that similar provision be made for meeting the expenses incurred by the relatives of destitute patients admitted on the ordinary admission form has been noted for consideration in conjunction with other amendments of the Lunacy Acts. The matter does not, however, come within the scope of the Local Government Bill.
Might I ask if the Government will have this matter soon taken in hands? It is a very serious matter for poor people.
The Deputy might recollect that during the last session I gave an undertaking that I would set up a Commission to enquire into Poor Law administration. I expect to have the Terms of Reference of that Commission completed within the next few days, and it will inquire into the whole question of the administration of the lunacy law.