asked the Minister for Health if he will make a grant available to assist in the cost of constructing the rehabilitation centre at Ballindine, County Mayo.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Mayo Rehabilitation Centre.
5.
I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 4 and 5 together.
I received a deputation from the Disabled Drivers' Association on 29th May during which they sought financial assistance towards the establishment of a community and training centre at Ballindine, County Mayo. I undertook to seek recommendations on this project from a working party that I established some months ago to advise me as to the future organisation of training facilities for handicapped persons. I understand that members of that working party have now arranged to meet representatives of the association in Ballindine next week. As soon as the working party report back to me I shall be in a position to take a decision in the matter.
Is it a fact that no grants are being paid by the Minister's Department for work of this nature as long as the working party are preparing their report?
That is right.
If so, why did the two representatives — or at least one of them—of the National Rehabilitation Board sent by the Minister to meet this association in Ballindine last January inform them then—even though the working party had been set up in November, I understand— that they would get a grant but could give no indication of the size of the grant?
I have not any information to the effect that the board told them they would get a grant. It is true that they commenced building in November. The working party were established in December.
I understand these facts were brought to the Minister's notice by the deputation which met him recently and that he would be aware that an indication was given that a grant would be paid. Since then, they have been informed that no grants will be paid. Is the Minister aware—he seems to be—that work has commenced on this very worthwhile project——
This is a very long question.
I agree, but I shall be as brief as possible. It seems a shame that work has ceased on this pending the report of a committee. This seems to the association to be a stalling tactic as all the facts and information are in the Department already.
All the facts are in the Department already but I do not think the Deputy would agree to the principle of committing himself to making grants for the building of an establishment without first getting the Minister's permission and assent.
I understand from the association that they have been in constant——
I have given the Deputy a lot of latitude. He is not even asking a question at this stage; he is continuing to make statements.
Can the Minister give any indication when he will have the report of the working party? Will he give some indication that he would be prepared at an early date to give a commitment to a 50/50 grant?
I cannot give any commitment until I get the report of the working party which will be meeting the representatives of the association next week at Ballindine.
I am calling Question No. 6.