Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

They are two different objectives. The education Ireland Bill will be introduced next year. The Whips will be meeting on the business next week and the week after. More than likely, the fair deal Bill will probably come into the House the week after next.

On the Social Welfare Bill, the date of its introduction will be announced by the Minister for Social and Family Affairs in due course and will come to the House as soon as agreed by the Whips.

On the question of the medical card provision, that will be dealt with in separate health legislation by the Minister for Health and Children.

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