asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he proposes to increase the salaries of home assistance officers; and the value of the food and fuel vouchers issued to old age pensioners, blind pensioners and those in receipt of national health insurance benefits.

I have at present no functions in regard to the salaries of home assistance officers.

The supplements granted to old age pensioners, blind pensioners and persons in receipt of national health insurance benefits are under review in conjunction with the supplements granted to beneficiaries under other schemes of social insurance and assistance.