asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether, in view of the increased cost of living he will, as an interim measure, introduce proposals for legislation to increase the benefits payable under the Workmen's Compensation Acts.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Workmen's Compensation.
As the Deputy is aware the matter of increasing the present rates of compensation under the Workmen's Compensation Acts is tied up with the larger question of whether that code should be merely amended or replaced. As all the energies of my Department are at present devoted to making the necessary arrangements for the early implementation of the new social welfare scheme enacted in the Social Welfare Act, 1952 the final consideration of this major problem must be deferred until it is possible to give the matter due consideration. In the meantime I do not propose to introduce amending legislation.
May I take it that no legislation will be introduced during the present session?
It will not be introduced during the present session.