Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Mr. O'Brien refers in his opening statement to policy change reducing eligibility for approximately 40,000 people who have a medical card. Will somebody outline the policy change in respect of eligibility? The key question is whether the change in eligibility will impact on 40,000 or is that the minimum number of people on whom it will impact? While the policy change may withdraw medical cards from 40,000 people, is that a minimum number or is it the target figure? These are important issues that must be clarified.

What is striking also is the reduction in staff in the services for older people, mental health and community care. There seems to be a disproportionate reduction in staffing number in these three key areas, yet the priorities identified for mental health services, suicide prevention, and care for older persons with mental health and intellectual disabilities.

The decisions were made prior to the Croke Park II deal being finalised. What savings are envisaged under Croke Park II? Some worker representative groups and unions are still outside and are in negotiations outside of the Croke Park II? Can one say definitively the savings will come about under Croke Park II when the deal has not been concluded yet?

With the permission of the Chair, may I be parochial and raise a local issue?