asked the Minister for Social Welfare whether any consideration has been given to an upward revision of that portion of the disabled person's allowance which comes under the heading of supplementary welfare allowance and which has remained unchanged for a number of years; the number of disabled persons who qualify for supplementary welfare allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I take it that the Deputy is referring to a payment under the supplementary welfare allowances scheme as a supplement to other income, in this case a disabled person's maintenance allowance. Payment of a supplement and the amount thereof is a matter for the health boards, having regard to the circumstances of each individual case. If the person concerned wishes to have the supplement increased he should apply to the local community welfare officer.

Statistics of disabled persons who are receiving supplements under the supplementary welfare allowances scheme are not available.

13.