Kathleen Funchion (Carlow-Kilkenny, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I have a question or two. The enhanced medical card is one of the key features. The six-month cut-off point is a major issue but previous speakers raised that matter, so I will not do so again. What is actually covered by an enhanced medical card? A number of women have asked me that question. Some were left to give birth in horrific circumstances which resulted in lifelong medical conditions. That can be very personal for people. I hate that people have to tell that story in order to get any help. It is a very difficult thing to do. What is covered by the enhanced medical card? We all know how much pressure the health system is under. A medical card will only be of significant benefit if it enables people to access services or operations for which they may have been waiting for a number of years.

On the payment of €3,000 for those living abroad, how was that figure arrived at? Similarly, how were the other figures of €12,500 for those who were resident for up to six months and €5,000 for those who were resident for at least six months decided? How many people who were born in one of these institutions stayed for less than six months and how many stayed for more than six months? With all due respect, it seems to people who are following this process and those affected by it that it is coming down to numbers. Obviously, it appears that a larger number of people were born in institutions and stayed for less than six months. Is there information on that?