§ Mr. JOHN O'CONNORasked the Chief Secretary whether he is aware that nuns employed as nurses in workhouse hospitals in Ireland receive only about £30 per annum each, out of which they have to clothe and support themselves, and that, in time of illness, they have their own communities to fall back on for medical and other attendance; and whether, under the circumstances, they will be allowed to claim an exemption from contribution under the National Insurance Act.
§ Mr. MASTERMANIf, as would appear from the facts as stated in the question, the nurses are under a contract of service2260W with the workhouse authorities, they must be insured. The Commissioners have no power to allow exemption to any persons unless they are persons qualified for exemption under the terms of Section 2 of the Act.