asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he will make regulations to enable persons to opt for a free gas allowance in lieu of the free electricity allowance.
Written Answers. - Free Electricity Scheme.
164.
I assume that the question refers to mains gas and while I am sympathetically disposed towards the Deputy's proposal I regret that its implementation would not be feasible. I should like to mention, however, that a scheme of free bottled gas refills is operated by my Department for persons who are otherwise qualified for free electricity allowance but who are not connected to an electricity supply.
It is also possible for a person whose means are insufficient to cater for his heating or other needs to obtain assistance under the supplementary welfare allowances scheme which is operated by the health boards.