Margaret Conlon (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)

We must target resources at those who need them most. It is important we devote scarce resources — taxpayers' funds — to meet the needs of those who most require health services. Anyone with income above the threshold who has difficulty meeting his or her medical needs will be eligible to apply for a medical card under the Health Service Executive's discretionary card scheme.

The new arrangements do not require those currently eligible for a medical card to undergo a means test. Everyone aged 70 years and over will be notified of the new arrangements and only those with incomes above the new threshold will be required to notify their circumstances to the HSE.

I sincerely regret that the issue of medical cards has been a cause of major concern. I received many calls from concerned individuals in the days following the budget. I hope the new arrangement will reassure people that the Government is concerned about their status. The vast majority of people will be eligible for a medical card under the new income limits. Only those at the top of the income bracket will not qualify for a card.

A process of intense engagement with the Irish Medical Organisation and those with particular expertise in this area was established to develop recommendations for good practice which will secure safe and effective prescribing for patients, while maximising the potential for the economy in the use of public funds. Headed by Mr. Eddie Sullivan, the group recommended a new single capitation fee of €290 which the Government intends to implement from 1 January 2009. The new medical card application form will be much simpler than the current form which is long, detailed and difficult to read, appraise and complete. We are leading longer and healthier lives, for which we should plan prudently and wisely.

Like many of my colleagues, I contacted the Minister to express the concerns of widows and widowers. I am pleased she will introduce an amendment to address this issue.

I do not agree with Deputy Olivia Mitchell that people will stop taking their medications. Such a course of action would be a retrograde step. I appeal to all sides not to add to the hysteria we observed.

As my colleague, Deputy Bobby Aylward, indicated, a media frenzy was whipped up on the issue of medical cards for the elderly and numerous people developed a new found interest in care for the elderly as they sought to use an opportunity to oppose the Government. While the Government made an initial error in setting income thresholds, we were strong and humble enough to listen to people. Accordingly, the income thresholds were adjusted upwards. The Government will continue to honour its commitment to older people who made a valuable contribution to our country. I commend the Bill to the House.

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