Mr. John Hennessy:

We accept there are problems with the medical card scheme. There is no refusal to accept the reality of that. We have heard examples from members and others and, indeed, we have responded to them over the past several weeks. We are also investigating the possibility of local contact points to be of assistance to applicants who, for whatever reason, are not comfortable with online application systems and call centres. I recognise that significant numbers of people are not comfortable with such methods and that we have to make proper arrangements for them. We are also in discussions with certain local authorities which are interested in providing support and assistance of this nature.

In regard to medical officer delays, if I can get the details from Deputy Seamus Healy I would be happy to investigate the matter. If we can get the details of problems we can deal with them on a case by case basis and, hopefully, resolve them. In regard to Deputy McLellan's comment, it is not the case that any answer will do. Obviously it has to be the right answer.