Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The reason we are opposing this Bill is quite simple. In effect, the Government is legislating for a U-turn of massive proportions. This Bill is simply about reducing the income eligibility criteria that apply to over 70s. It is about taking medical cards from another 35,000 people. A key question must be asked in this context. If it was bad a number of years ago for a couple over the age of 70 to be ineligible if they had an income of €1,400, why are we now being told that it is good to set the threshold that applies to a couple at €900?

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