Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I have glanced at the Minister's explanation of the reason he believes it is achievable to reduce provision for the primary care reimbursement services. The Minister is talking about a significant amount of money, almost €20 million. While it is under 1%, it is a considerable sum. The high-tech expenditure for 2015 is to remain at the forecast 2014 outturn. I suppose Soliris would come in under high-tech? The situation is more fluid than the determination of these figures might allow for. I think there will be an impact. There may be others. Is it wise?

With the upturn in the economy, more people will be back in paid and better paid employment and will not qualify for a GP or a medical card. Consequently, some 60,000 people will no longer be eligible. With the advent of the service for the under sixes and the over 70s, which will all happen in this year, hopefully, I would be concerned that further strain is being placed on the primary care reimbursement service, which has been the focus of much negative engagement from members of the committee and other Members in spite of the best intentions and best efforts of Paddy Burke and his team. In fairness to them, I do not think they deserve to be put under any further strain.