Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)

Regarding section 3 and gross income, I ask the Minister, Deputy Harney, to clarify a matter. It defies logic that the Bill does not recognise the concept of net income when that income arises from rental property. The definition of gross for somebody in that position is not catered for.

The Bill also does not allow for someone to be means tested on an individual basis, if that is what they so wish. This Government has been forward in expressing its desire for individualisation for the purpose of the tax system, but on this matter it goes in the opposite direction and does not allow for individuals to be tested on an individual basis. A spouse with no income cannot seek individual testing. That could result in such a person being deprived of a medical card even though they have no direct income. There is no choice in the matter. I am flabbergasted to see the Government allows for individualisation in a policy area such as taxation but insists on joint incomes in this instance.

I am concerned that the word gross is used constantly. Deputy O'Sullivan mentioned those who sell their property to move into a nursing home. Their income is derived from property. A person's sole income could come from rental property. Allowances should be deducted from rental income to allow a person to qualify for a medical card under the provisions of the Bill. I am interested to hear the response of the Minister, Deputy Harney.

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