asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health whether, with a view to combating the ravages of tuberculosis and ultimately eradicating the disease, he will set up a committee to report, at the earliest possible date, on the best means of providing that persons, who are unable to follow their employment owing to the fact that they are suffering from tuberculosis, will be paid the full amount of their wages whilst undergoing treatment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Tuberculosis Patients.
The problem of tuberculosis is receiving special examination at present, and I do not think there would be anything to be gained in setting up a committee to investigate a particular aspect of it.
Arising out of the Minister's reply, does he not realise that we cannot effectively combat tuberculosis if the victims of that disease are to be left in an impoverished condition; and will the Minister take steps to relieve people who are suffering from tuberculosis from the blight of economic distress?
I have nothing further to add to what I have said, except that I might point out that some provision is made in this year's Estimates to deal with this matter.
Am I to take it that the Minister will do nothing in this regard, when the whole conscience of the country is alert to deal with the question of combating this disease?
Having regard to all the circumstances, the Government is doing all that it can in this matter.
Which is nothing.