I suppose "a serving soldier" means a soldier on service?
NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE BILL, 1924—REPORT STAGE.
Government amendment:—
Section 2, sub-section (1). Immediately after the word "member" in line 19 to insert the words "(not being a serving soldier)".
AN CATHAOIRLEACH
Yes. This amendment seems necessary, as soldiers, during the period of their service, are not eligible for the receipt of sickness or disablement benefit, and consequently do not require medical benefit. In these circumstances it does not seem fair to make a debit against approved societies in respect of serving soldiers. The actuarial calculations, moreover, in respect of serving soldiers are made at a time when the State paid all the cost in respect of medical certifying. The amount of money involved is trifling, about £100.
Amendment put and agreed to.
AN CATHAOIRLEACH
I take it that the same applies to all the other amendments which are of the same character unless any Senator wishes to raise a question on any of the various sections.
Government amendments:—
2. Section 2, sub-section (1). Immediately after the word "member" in line 23 to insert the words "(not being a serving soldier)."
3. Section 2, sub-section (3). Immediately after the word "members" in line 34 to insert the words "(not being serving soldiers)."
4. Section 4. Immediately after the word "member" in line 8 to insert the words "(not being a serving soldier)."
Amendments put and agreed to.
AN CATHAOIRLEACH
I suppose there is nothing specially urgent about that Bill?
No; it is a question of payment to doctors, and they are fairly well-to-do men and will probably be able to wait for a few days.
Bill received for final consideration.
Ordered for Fifth Stage.