Michael Colreavy (Sligo-North Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

The Minister of State said on Second Stage that 20,000 people will have their medical cards withdrawn. According to the HSE service plan, some 40,000 cards will be withdrawn. I would love to understand the rationale for the difference. I agree with Deputy Kelleher that there is some wriggle room that will allow the Minister of the day to deviate from the consumer price index. Even if he or she does not deviate from it, this responsibility is being given to him or her. That is a substantial change on the legislation as it currently operates. This section should be opposed.

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