Vol. 442 No. 7
64 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health the number of people in the country who suffer from colour blindness; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this problem can preclude many people from pursuing their chosen career; the results of the most recent research into the problem and its possible solutions; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Colour blindness is a condition which occurs predominantly in males. It is estimated that 8 per cent of males and 0.5 per cent of females have the condition. Most people with colour blindness are able to carry out their normal occupation. However, as the Deputy will appreciate there are certain occupations which cannot be undertaken by people with colour blindness. As the condition is genetically determined advances in research into the condition will depend on research in the genetic field.
