asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will state why national health benefit has been refused to Mr. John Flaherty, Ballybrone Cottages, Turloughmore, County Galway, and whether, in view of the fact that Mr. Flaherty has submitted 16 certificates, resides in a labourer's cottage and has no other means, he will arrange for immediate payment.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - National Health Benefit.
I am informed by the National Health Insurance Society that Mr. Flaherty surrendered only 13 contributions in the contribution year ended 3rd July, 1949, and, having failed to pay the appropriate arrears penalty before the 1st December, 1949, is suspended from benefit during the benefit year 1950.
Mr. Flaherty has not applied for an extension of the period for payment of the arrears penalty, but if he now desires to pay the amount (12/-) necessary to bring him into benefit, he will be permitted to do so. If he pays this sum he will be able to qualify for full sickness benefit from the commencement of his claim.