James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

I refer to No. 54, eligibility for health and personal social services Bill. The income threshold for medical cards has not increased for years outside of the consumer price index and it is causing hardship for people. When will the Bill be introduced? Is it intended to review it?

The Taoiseach, the Minister for Health and Children and the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government will be aware of the growth of Rasta and hemp shops, which are selling pills and various mind altering substances that are not legislated for. Has the Minister for Health and Children plans with the Irish Medicines Board to outlaw these shops? Has the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government plans to introduce planning laws to restrict the setting up of shops to sell these products?

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