Noel Harrington (Cork South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I wish to raise a minor issue, but one that affects some medical card holders under review. A few cases have been raised in my office in this regard. Under the assessment, the HSE is asking for a notice of assessment from the Revenue Commissioners on income where a means test has already been done, for example, by the Department of Social Protection. Ordinarily, one would not be asked for another revenue assessment. An extra layer of effort is involved, particularly for over-70s. A couple over 70 might have non-contributory pensions assessed by the Department of Social Protection, yet they are asked for proof of income from the HSE. This is a necessity. With regard to the under-70s, people on very low incomes, such as those in receipt of the farm assist payment, would be asked for a further assessment of income. Until the day comes that the Department of Finance asks every citizen to file a tax return, asking medical card applicants to carry out a further assessment, which might involve their having to go to an accountant, involves extra unnecessary expenditure, time and effort. The accountancy industry may not thank me for saying that. There is a simple lack of communication between the HSE, the Department, the Office of the Revenue Commissioners and the Department of Social Protection. We could open up channels there and make it a lot easier for people to fit into the guidelines that already exist.