asked the Minister for Health what steps he proposes to take with a view to the amelioration of the lot of the deaf and dumb.

My functions in regard to this matter are confined to approving institutions to which local authorities may send deaf and dumb persons for maintenance, education and training. I am informed that the institutions in the country which admit male and female deaf and dumb are not full to capacity and that they have no waiting lists. It does not appear that the present arrangements to deal with the problem are inadequate. I will, however, gladly consider any suggestions to ameliorate the lot of the deaf and dumb which the Deputy wishes to submit to me.

Would the Minister agree that the time has arrived when the care of these people should cease to be the responsibility of charitable organisations and of institutions depending on voluntary contributions?