asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether he is aware that recipients of vouchers under the footwear scheme are unable to secure supplies in the Rathdown Board of Assistance area; and, if so, if he will take steps to remedy the position.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Footwear Supplies.
Mr. Brady
I am not aware that there is any shortage of supplies of official footwear in the Rathdown area. The Public Assistance Footwear Scheme is administered through the normal trade channels and I have no power to insist that traders must stock the special footwear provided for the scheme. Arrangements have however been made with footwear manufacturers for the provision of official footwear to meet the current requirements and supplies should be freely available. If the Deputy will give me particulars of the cases he has in mind I will have the matter examined.
Is the Minister aware that, recently, in the City of Dublin, in the case of a family entitled to five pairs of boots under this scheme only two pairs were made available? Is there any reason why——
The question refers to the Rathdown area.
I know that. It is the same problem.
You cannot extend the radius of the question.
I will send particulars of the case to the Minister, anyway.
If the Deputy will send me particulars, I will be glad to have the matter investigated and the result communicated to him.
Thanks.