Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

If there is a system in place, it should operate and the people who apply for medical cards should get an answer as to whether they are entitled to them or not, but they should not be left in limbo. I take into account what Deputy Martin said. I have such cases raised with me and it is not very nice when somebody feels they have been thwarted by the system, and if they need medicines, they deserve to have them made available to them, and the Minister for Health stands by that. It is a case of finding out where is the blockage in the system and releasing it in order that everybody who applies for a medical card can have a response efficiently, competently and professionally. As these issues are all about patient care and attention, we could consider that. I am not sure that the Deputy wants another debate on health, we had one last week. We could have such a debate at the Joint Committee on Health and Children in a short while if Members wish to raise the issue again at that committee.

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