Margaret Murphy O'Mahony (Cork South West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I very much welcome the Minister's news in this regard. Since my appointment as party spokesperson on disability a year and a half ago, I have met with many groups and advocates for people with disabilities. Across the range, this concern is the biggest fear. It is probably the most mentioned issue. People are very afraid that they will lose their medical card. The medical card opens many doors. It is not just about their medicine. Medical support will be required, particularly for people with a permanent disability, which will improve their quality of life but quality of life extends beyond medical care. These people should be allowed to reach their full potential and get a job for which they are qualified.

See this speech in context