Éamon Ó Cuív asks when medical card income limit increases will take effect

Éamon Ó Cuív asked when letters of effect would be issued for the budget increase in medical card income limits for over-70s and for the planned expansion of free GP care for children up to age 12. He noted the measures were due to be introduced in July and asked why implementation had not yet occurred.

Question on medical card income limits

The deputy referred to the budget announcement raising medical card income limits for over-70s to 550 from 500 for single persons and to 1,050 from 900 for couples, and asked when letters of effect would be given for those changes.

Legislative requirements

He was told that primary legislation is required to change the income limits for people over 70 and to provide for the expansion of free GP care to children up to the age of 12. That legislation has been approved by Cabinet and is intended to be taken through the Dáil and Seanad before the recess.

Timing for over-70s and children

The reply stated the Dáil and Seanad stages are expected to be completed this month, after which the Minister for Health will be able to bring the over-70s changes into effect later in the year. The expansion of free GP care for children was described as more complicated and likely to take longer.

Next steps and required discussions

Officials said the children’s GP scheme will require further discussion with GPs before it can be implemented, indicating that formal enactment and letters of effect depend on the completion of the legislative process and engagement with general practitioners.