asked the Minister for Social Welfare the steps which have been taken to liberalise the application of the free fuel scheme in the cases of flatdwellers and other senior citizens in similar conditions whose heating systems do not permit the use of solid fuel.

Under the existing cheap fuel scheme to which the Deputy refers only solid fuel is provided. I have had a report made on the operation of this scheme and the report is at present under examination in my Department.

I should mention that a certain amount of free electricity is provided to many pensioners under the free electricity allowance scheme. I should also like to point out that assistance may be provided for persons who have exceptional heating needs under the supplementary welfare allowances scheme.