andMr. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Health if he has issued a directive to the Southern Health Board to terminate disablity allowances to married women.

: I assume that the question refers to the operation of the disabled persons' maintenance allowance scheme. I have not issued any directive about the eligibility of married women under this scheme.

: Is the Minister aware that this allowance has now been terminated?

: It may have been terminated in the normal course of administration but I have not issued any directive. The question asked if I had issued a directive. I have not, and I have no intention of issuing any such directive.

: I thank the Minister for his assuarance, but would he investigate why such an operation is now taking place by the officials of the Southern Health Board?

: Is the Deputy suggesting there is something more than a routine examination going on?

: Yes.

: I will look into that.