11. Lieut. - Colonel W. GUINNESSasked the Pensions Minister whether he is aware that under existing regulations no provision is made for admission, to suitable institutions of men discharged from the Army on account of neurasthenia, melancholia, and epilepsy in Ireland; whether melancholia cases brought on by shell-shock and amputation of limbs have in consequence been admitted to lunatic asylums in Ireland where they are treated as pauper lunatics; and whether he will take steps to provide maintenance and treatment for such cases in special institutions?
§ Sir J. CRAIGThere are two institutions in Ireland available for neurasthenics. As far as I am aware, there are no epileptic colonies in Ireland with which arrangements for the reception of discharged men can be made, and it is therefore necessary to bring the few cases of epilepsy to England. Men are only placed in asylums if they are certified under the Lunacy Laws, and I am now arranging that men so certified shall be treated as Service patients.
Lieut.-Colonel GUINNESSWhat, in effect, will be the difference between the treatment of Service patients and the ordinary pauper patient?
§ Sir J. CRAIGOh, very great. Special arrangements will be made by the medical officers. There is a distinct difference between the two classes.