asked the Minister for Health if he has received any reports on the possibility of a connection between blindness in children and canine pets; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I have not received any reports on the possibility of a connection between blindness in children and canine pets. I have, however, seen recent Press reports on the subject. I am advised that there can be such a connection. There is a disease called toxicara canis which derives its name from a worm which infects the intestine of dogs. Ova from the worm are excreted. If these ova get into the mouths of children and are eaten, the larva hatch in the gut and migrate into body tissues especially the brain and eye. This may cause blindness or epilepsy.

I am told that the risk of serious infection is slight. Nevertheless I would strongly advise people to have their pet dogs wormed regularly and to make sure that children do not let their pets lick them on the face. It is also very important that children should develop the habit of washing their hands before eating, particularly after playing with their pets.

Could the Parliamentary Secretary have that reply publicised as a warning to parents? Could the Parliamentary Secretary issue a public notice on the matter?

I am very glad that the Deputy has given me the opportunity of advising both adults and children to have hygienic habits in the handling of their dogs and to worm them regularly. I will ask the Department to have the matter publicised to the greatest extent possible.