Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

The tax break to which I refer cost €10.6 million in 2006. This saving alone is in excess of what is sought by the Government in terms of the saving signalled in respect of medical cards. While other options were available, the Government failed to capitalise on other opportunities and instead, I regret, chose to target older citizens and people who have invested a lifetime in helping to build this economy. I urge all Deputies to reject this so-called Health Bill and ensure access for all citizens over 70 years to the medical card, as a forerunner to the roll-out of full and universal access to free health care for all citizens, paid for by fair and equitable tax contributions.

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