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

I thank the Minister of State for outlining what has happened. We tabled our question because this is a key platform in the delivery of health care and the roll-out of universal access to GPs. It is also a stated policy of Government that feeds into the move towards primary care. The contract is important. The negotiation of the broader General Medical Services, GMS, contract is, conveniently, to conclude next April.

Let us be honest - free GP care for the under sixes does not appear to be getting off to a great start. Why has there not been a large uptake? Why are GPs not clamouring at the Minister of State's door to sign contracts?

Will the Minister of State clarify whether contracts are being offered to GPs who have not undergone the vetting process? This issue was reported at the weekend.

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