Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

The Tánaiste did not answer the first two questions I asked her, that is whether it is the position that the Minister can change the income limits at the stroke of a pen after 1 January, when these measures will be enacted. Will the Government index-link the new income limits? I would like an answer to those questions and I understand other Members seek answers to those questions before voting on the Fine Gael motion later this evening.

The Tánaiste did not answer my question on the legal position regarding those over 70. It is perfectly clear that repealing the Act of 2001 does not remove the legal entitlement to hold a medical card of those who have already reached the age of 70. Can the Tánaiste clarify the position? Is it the Government's position that it intends to repeal the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2001, which will change the position for those under 70 but not for those over 70? Is it the intention to bring in legislation that expressly provides for taking back the medical card from those who hold them? After a number of interviews on radio and television by the Taoiseach and the press conference yesterday, we are entitled to know what the Government intends, if the Government knows what it intends to do. We need clarity on the three simple questions I asked. Can the Minister change the income limits? Will she index-link the income limits? Is there a legal basis for taking back the entitlement from those who got the entitlement under the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act?

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