andMrs. Burke asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a greater contribution from central funds towards the health services so as to contain the excessive charge on ratepayers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Health Service Contributions.
24.
The question of the amount of contribution by the Exchequer towards the cost of the health services is at present under consideration in connection with the preparation of the Estimates for the Public Services for 1971-72.
Could the Parliamentary Secretary say if he is hopeful that there will be a greater contribution towards the rates?
This matter is under review. The Minister for Health dealt with it at great length. It is a matter that must be dealt with in the context of the general budgetary situation as a whole.
Could the Parliamentary Secretary say whether local authorities will know the position before Friday of this week?
I could not say.
What is to happen where they cannot strike a rate, where the 21 days are up on Friday next?
The Minister for Health dealt with this at some length and it would be wasting the time of the House, I think, to go into it further at this stage.
(Interruptions.)
In view of the fact that every local authority is at the moment considering the rate for the next financial year, does the Parliamentary Secretary not consider it wise to advise local authorities as to the amount of health grant they can expect to get in the next financial year?
I have nothing to add.
(Interruptions.)
Would Deputy Coughlan allow the Minister to proceed?