Alex White (Dublin South, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I reject that suggestion. As the Chairman knows, I do not tend to react to such remarks, but I reject Deputy Seamus Healy's suggestion I am trying to avoid any question or change a question in any way. I am trying to be helpful. Most Deputies and Senators will know that I have tried, at all times, to be helpful in answering questions. The Deputy, therefore, really should not have made that remark.

On gross versus net income tests, it suits most of those over 70 years to apply the gross income test. It is true, however, that in some cases the net income test would be better. A person who is over 70 years can opt to use the net income test, if he or she so wishes. In fact, persons over 65 years of age are in a slightly more advantageous position than others in respect of the net income test. However, one cannot combine gross and net incomes. In other words, one cannot opt for the gross income thresholds because they are more attractive, while importing some of the rules that apply to the net income test. One must opt for one or the other, which makes sense.

On the emergency medical card, I listened very carefully-----