P J Sheehan (Cork South West, Fine Gael)

That is true. Deputy O'Rourke is of my vintage and in my league.

The Government's actions are despicable. Elderly people were not told that the provision of medical cards for all over 70s was merely a temporary measure. Will there now be means testing in respect of free travel and electricity and telephone allowances? Is this the thin edge of the wedge?

I am trying to instil some knowledge in the people opposite. However, I fear my words are in vain as they are not taking any notice of what I am saying. The people will take notice during the European and county council elections. If the Government tries to introduce another referendum on the Lisbon treaty it will feel the wrath of the people.

I have been a Member of this House for the past 23 years. Never in that time have I witnessed that which I witnessed last night. The taxi driver who took me to my accommodation last night, on finding out I was a member of the Fine Gael Party, refused to take from me any payment for the journey as a gesture of goodwill to the Fine Gael Party for its stance in regard to the scandalous act of the withdrawal from persons aged over 70 years of the universal right to a medical card.

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