Michael Collins (Cork South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

That people over 70 will have a better chance of getting a medical card is very important but we must also look at other areas where those over 70 are suffering quite a bit. For example, people in west Cork are seeking cataract procedures and we have taken over 50 bus trips to Belfast because our older people are suffering. They cannot get a cataract procedure in Cork or Kerry. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae and I have taken more than 1,500 people to Belfast to take advantage of the cross-border healthcare directive. Although such action is welcome, it should not have to happen. The people who served their people well have not been looked after well themselves.

At a later stage we can further discuss the fair deal scheme and the lack of community hospital beds. There are many matters on which I wish to work with both the Minister and the Minister of State.

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