asked the Minister for Health if he will state, in respect of the Southern Health Board area, the number of cases where grants of up to £25 per month payable to mentally and severely handicapped persons or their parents were discontinued during the past six months; and the reason for non-payment in each case.

In the period since 1st December, 1975, in the Southern Health Board area, payment of allowances under the scheme referred to by the Deputy was discontinued in a total of 37 cases. Allowances were discontinued in respect of 19 children who were admitted to institutions; two children who ceased to reside in the board's area; two children who died and five children who attained the age of 16 years. In the case of the remaining nine children, the allowance was withdrawn on the grounds that the medical criteria of eligibility under the scheme were no longer satisfied.

Was the grant withdrawn because the children had improved in mental health?

This essential qualification is adjudicated on by a medical officer. I have no jurisdiction in that case.