asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that families are being deprived of the blue card following the recent Provisional United Trade Union Organisation wage award; and if he has approved of this action on the part of health authorities.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Families Deprived of Blue Cards.
I am not aware that the position is as stated in the question but this is a matter for determination by each authority which has been instructed by circular issued on 26th February, 1955, that every case should be considered on its merits, having regard to the circumstances of the case.
The second part of the question does not therefore arise.
Would the Minister approve of such a policy—where the 10/- increase has been granted and the blue card has been taken away? It is a very serious penalty to impose on any family to take away the card because of the increase.
The Deputy is no doubt aware that the responsibility for the issuing of these cards has been placed by statute on the local authorities. It is not a question for me to approve or disapprove of the circumstances to be taken into consideration when determining whether or not a card should be granted.