Pat Gallagher (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

Perhaps we did not express this in detail. However, I, like many others in my party and on the backbenches, highlighted the issue in the parliamentary party and outside it. I felt it was necessary to do so to give comfort to the people I represent and that I should fight their cause. The Government, including the Taoiseach, the Minister for Health and Children and the Minister for Finance, took on board our concerns. Others in this House might claim they are responsible for the pragmatic change but it was the members of this party who were responsible for it.

Our concerns were taken on board and that culminated in last Monday's announcement raising the threshold to realistic levels which will ensure that in my constituency in excess of 95% of people will maintain their medical cards. This will ensure that those with State pensions and additional income from occupational pensions are covered. I am confident that the threshold will be linked to the consumer price index but that is a matter for Government.

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