asked the Minister for Social Welfare if he is aware that the pension scheme for short-time health employees, e.g. health inspectors, is inadequate due to the fact that they do not qualify for social welfare benefits; and if he has any plans to introduce amending legislation to enable them to qualify for such benefits.

It is assumed that the Deputy is referring to health inspectors who are employed for a limited period in a temporary capacity. Such employment is insurable under the Social Welfare Acts at the full class A rate of contribution which gives cover for all benefits and pensions under the social insurance scheme. The vast majority of health inspectors are employed full-time in a permanent and pensionable capacity and as such are entitled to sick pay during periods of illness and to retirement pension on attaining 60 years of age.