Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Ceann Comhairle for the opportunity to speak on this very urgent and important motion. I support the many people who need medical cards as a matter of medical priority. Any society or state that does not look after its sick, elderly and disabled is one without compassion and a sense of social justice. They are required in this debate. It is time for tough decisions to ensure we protect the health of all our citizens and that is why I urge the Government to reverse the cuts to the discretionary medical cards imposed in the HSE's 2014 health service plan. There has been a continuing, dramatic fall in the number of people granted or retaining discretionary medical cards. Despite numerous representations from Deputies, Senators and city councillors throughout this State, the Minister for Health and the Government have persistently refused to recognise the reality of this reduction and the hardship it is causing. The Government has proposed the vague notion of a third tier in the health service.

I ask the Minister to reverse the cuts to discretionary medical cards. We must ensure the HSE treats all applicants for medical cards with due respect, consideration and compassion. We must ensure all Members of the Oireachtas are listened to on this issue. We must put health back on top of the political agenda and ensure we have equality for people in need. It is unacceptable in any society that people with disabilities, the elderly or sick people are denied medical cards. It is unacceptable for any Minister or Government to say they will consider individual cases. We were promised a democratic revolution, reform and equality. We must ensure medical cards are given to the people who need them. The Government must not turn its back on senior citizens, the elderly and the disabled.

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