Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Following on from some of the questions that Deputy Donnelly raised earlier on the support packages promised by the Government, I received a note from the Department of Health. Up to 105 new medical cards have already been issued in this area. All supports in terms of home care packages and 14 counselling and physio appointments have started. The packages are under way in terms of the practical supports and implementations being put in place.

Many women have indicated that they want to consider their needs further and then revert to the HSE outlining what they require. That is understandable having outlined to them what is potentially on offer in terms of available supports. There will be a process of consideration and deliberation around that. It is very much under way.

I will come back to the Deputy with an exact date for the legislation in question. It is a priority and we are going to move it ahead as quickly as we can.

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