asked the Minister for Health if he will publicise the fact that regional health boards have powers to assist financially parents and relatives who wish to visit childern in special centres under the terms of the scheme for free travel.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Hospital Visiting Travel Scheme.
27.
This scheme was introduced on 1st September, 1971, and a Press release, which I issued at the time, received wide coverage in the national and provincial Press.
In reviewing the extent of the use of this service up to 31st March, 1972, I propose to consider whether further publicity is necessary.
Would the Minister consider instructing matrons and other people who are in charge of these institutions to advise the parents, particularly those with families, who cannot afford to come and see their children? Very often these people have not even got the national newspapers.
I will go into the question of whether any other form of communication is required in addition to publicity in the Press.