asked the Minister for Health whether, for the information of the public, he will publish a pamphlet giving full particulars about the health services available under the Health Act, and detailing the procedure to be followed in obtaining such services.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Health Services.
A summary of the services provided under the Health Acts for the various groups of the population is made available free of charge by my Department to any person who asks for it. More detailed information on the services in each area will be provided by the local health authorities (the county councils and county borough corporations). I have asked these authorities to publish detailed leaflets on the new services, based on a draft prepared in my Department. In this respect may I draw the attention of the Deputy to my reply on 19th April last to a question on similar lines which was put down by Deputy Denis Larkin?
A revised edition of the comprehensive "Guide to the Social Services" published by the Stationery Office is in course of preparation and that edition will contain full particulars as to eligibility, etc.
Would the Minister not consider making this explanatory pamphlet available in the post offices so that the people might have ready access to it? One can hardly expect people to write to the Ministry for information every time they want it.
I have asked the health authorities to consider the best way of providing the information to the people in each area in leaflet form. I will see that the Deputy's suggestion is considered by the responsible authorities.