asked the Minister for Health what sections of the Health Act, 1953, he proposes to implement and the dates from which he proposes to operate such sections.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Implementation of Health Act.
asked the Minister for Health whether he proposes to implement the Health Act, 1953, in full, and, if so, when.
I propose, with your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 63 and 64 together.
In January last following an examination of the entire position concerning the Health Act, 1953, I caused a circular to be issued to all health authorities notifying them that I anticipated that the necessary arrangements would be concluded and the facilities provided to enable the Act to be implemented practically in full during the latter portion of the current financial year and I advised them of the need to make appropriate financial provision in their estimates. I excepted specifically dental services under Section 21 of the Act for additional groups and maternity services for voluntary contributors. As regards dental services, I explained subsequently to health authorities that the extended services could not be provided until the corresponding services for children and the lower income group had been improved considerably. The same considerations apply to ophthalmic and aural services under that section.
In the case of maternity services for voluntary contributors, I do not propose to take any steps in regard to this very limited group, the provisions for which appear to embody some elements of insurance, until I have received and considered the report of the body I have set up to advise me on the general question of a voluntary health insurance scheme.
As regards Section 50 of the Act which deals with rehabilitation services, the portion of that section dealing with the maintenance of disabled persons has been in operation since the 1st October, 1954. I have recently established the National Rehabilitation Association whose task it will be to examine the more general question and to advise me and health authorities on measures which might be taken to establish rehabilitation services on a national basis and to place rehabilitated persons in employment. The portion of the section dealing with this aspect of the service will be brought into operation as soon as this association has completed its examination of the problem.
From the foregoing it will be seen that I am prepared to implement the Health Act, 1953, in full before the end of the current financial year except in regard to the relatively minor services which I have mentioned and the reasons for the deferment of which I have explained. As I have stated on several recent occasions, I am prepared, being satisfied that it is possible to do so, to implement the Act as a contribution to the ending of controversy and thus to permit of a more realistic approach to and an expansion of health services for the individual in particular and the public generally.
As regards the date on which the expanded services will come into operation, the position is that during the past year I have conducted numerous discussions and negotiations with various interested bodies and individuals whose co-operation is essential for the operation of these services. These discussions and negotiations are still in progress and I am endeavouring to ensure that they will be brought to an early and satisfactory conclusion. Provided that this can be achieved, arrangements for the operation of the extended services to which I have referred should be substantially completed before the end of the current financial year.