asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will consider introducing legislation to allow free electricity for widows in receipt of non-contributory pensions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Free Electricity.
33.
The scheme of free electricity was devised primarily for old age pensioners who are living alone or with certain specified persons only. Widows aged 70 or over who receive pensions, either contributory or non-contributory, from my Department and who satisfy the conditions may qualify for a free electricity allowance. Further extension of the scheme is not contemplated.
Does the Minister not think that widows with large families of young children would appreciate the concession of a television?
It would be great if we could give it to everybody.
Would the Minister not agree to give this concession to widows who might not be able to afford this luxury because of the hardship arising out of their husbands' deaths?
Unfortunately, we have not reached the stage where we can contemplate giving luxuries by way of social welfare.
Can the Minister give the numbers of widows in receipt of non-contributory pensions?
If the Deputy puts down a separate question I will give him the figures.