Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 14 Feb 1990

Vol. 395 No. 7

Written Answers. - Deductions from Christmas Bonus.

Ivan Yates

Ceist:

108 Mr. Yates asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fact that, in the Eastern Health Board area, additional deductions were made by long-stay geriatric hospitals from the Christmas bonus pension payments issued by the Department of Social Welfare; if he considers this fair; whether this practice was carried out in previous years; the reason no prior notice was given to pensioners; and if he will have this matter and practice investigated with a view to altering it for the coming year.

Minister for Health (Dr. O'Hanlon)

The imposition of charges in respect of long stay patients in geriatric hospitals is a matter for the Eastern Health Board in the first instance. These charges are calculated on the basis of the patient's income, which normally consists solely of pension. Accordingly, when income increases, the charge is raised on a pro rata basis; this practice applies not only to the Christmas bonus but also to any other increases in income, such as proceeds from investments or disposal of assets.

These arrangements have existed for many years. However, I would like to assure the Deputy that where particular individual needs exist, then these are considered by the health board in a sympathetic manner.