Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 112, 143 and 148 together.

As stated in reply to Parliamentary Question No. 261 of 25 September 2008, I have no statutory authority to establish a specific scheme or tribunal to provide for compensation to people suffering health problems as a consequence of working in underground mines. In addition, I have no resources from which to fund such a scheme. The question of assistance to former miners, or any other categories of employees, who suffer health problems as a result of working conditions in the past is primarily a matter for them and their employers, and in so far as the State is concerned, of disability or occupational injuries benefit entitlement under the social welfare code. I have not, therefore, assessed any claims for such compensation.

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