Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)

I intend to press my opposition to section 3 to a vote because it is the substantial part of the Bill as it is the section which amends the Health Act 1970 by delineating certain categories of people over 70 who will no longer be allowed to have a medical card. It will take the medical card away from over 70s unless they happen to comply with the means test. It not only includes income but also savings limits. When I spoke on Second Stage I referred to people who have savings over the limit because they sold their house to be able to pay nursing home charges. Many people will be excluded from this and it is not true to say they are all millionaires. A number of Members quoted from letters from the Retired Teachers Association, which indicated that the means test would exclude retired teachers. Many other categories of people, who would not be considered to be very rich, will be excluded because of this legislation.

I will push my amendment opposing section 3 of this Bill because it is the fundamental section dealing with the substance of a Bill I consider to be harsh and cruel and takes away the principle of universality established for those over 70.

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