Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 30 Apr 1998

Vol. 490 No. 4

Written Answers. - Health Board Staff.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

109 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the action, if any, he proposes to take regarding the ongoing industrial dispute by Eastern Health Board community welfare officers in Kildare; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this dispute is causing serious hardship to recipients of rent subsidy who are under severe pressure from their landlords due to arrears of rent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10369/98]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The administration of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme in County Kildare is a matter primarily for the Eastern Health Board. I understand from the board that agreement was reached between the board and the community welfare officers in Kildare on Tuesday last. The board has informed me that services have returned to normal and has assured me that priority is being given to ensure that all payments are up to date.