asked the Minister for Local Government and Public Health if he has received any reports to the effect that the outbreaks of infantile paralysis which have occurred recently at several centres are due to deleterious qualities of the bread now being supplied by bakers from this season's wheat; and if he will consider calling together a small consultative council of doctors, chemists and dieticians who will examine the grave situation that has arisen, and who will be empowered, through his Department, to advise the bakers as to how this season's flour can be treated in the bakery by chemical additions or by special methods of baking so as to ensure the public getting a better quality loaf.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Infantile Paralysis.
No reports have been received to the effect that any cases of infantile paralysis which have occurred recently are due to the quality of the bread now being supplied by bakers. As the disease in question is caused by a specific virus it is not considered that it could be transmitted in the manner suggested.
I have already indicated in a reply given last week on the subject of bread supplies that I am advised that the nutritive quality of the bread has not been prejudicially affected by the factors which are responsible for a deterioration in the quality of the flour now being used. Accordingly an examination of the nature suggested in the final part of the query does not arise.