asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether he will have inquiries made as to the reason why the Prudential Insurance Society, 104 Grafton Street, Dublin, has refused payment of National Health Insurance Benefit to Mr. Edward McGrath, Reg. No. 31254/X, Moorefield Road, Newbridge, Co. Kildare; whether he is aware that this man has one hundred and eighty-two stamps to his credit, and has sent in four medical certificates, and whether he can give instructions to expedite payment.
CEISTEANNA—QUESTIONS. ORAL ANSWERS. - NEWBRIDGE INSURANCE CLAIM.
I understand that benefit was refused in this case on the ground that this man had ceased to be a member of the society mentioned, before the date of the claim. It appears he was last employed during the week ended the 8th February, 1925, and his free year's insurance membership consequently terminated on the 8th ultimo, not having been extended by any period of duly notified incapacity before that date. He was not entitled to have his insurance prolonged as he was not credited with the necessary three-quarters of the possible number of contributions since his last entry into insurance. Notification of his present illness was not given before the 10th ultimo. His first medical certificate, dated the 17th ultimo, stated he was unfit since the 10th ultimo, that is after his membership had terminated. He has therefore been informed that he can apply to his society to have his case decided by arbitration if he is not satisfied that his free year's insurance and membership had expired before the date of his claim. In accordance with the society's rules such application must be made before the end of this month.
Will the Minister send one of his inspectors to inquire into the circumstances of this particular man's case and try to help him?
I will try.