Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Reilly, in his capacity as Fine Gael's spokesperson on health, rightly described what Fianna Fáil was doing as a "vicious attack". He suggested in the strongest terms that the proposal to introduce thresholds represented a "savage assault on the elderly". Since they took office, the Minister for Health and his Ministers of State have legislated for two reductions in the qualification threshold for a full over 70s medical card. Both of those reductions have been introduced this year. The Bill before the House is the Health (Alteration of Criteria for Eligibility) (No. 2) Bill 2013. This is the second time this has been done to over 70s in this calendar year. Single people over the age of 70 who live alone will have their qualification threshold for a full medical card reduced to €500. The threshold that applies to couples and people living together in various relationships will be reduced by €300 from €1,200 to €900. The consequences of this decision of the Minister and of the Government, made as part of budget 2014, will be very serious indeed. Members of all opinion on all sides of the House cannot be unaware of the impact of this measure on people in their communities and constituencies. It will have serious consequences. It is causing untold upset and worry. Even at this 11th hour, this Bill should be withdrawn.

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