Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

What does the Minister mean by stating it is not a scheme for people who fall into ill-health? People who were good and healthy but get scoliosis or a similar serious medical condition, which means they are unable to walk or get into a car, qualify for the scheme. Obviously, that is a medical decision, rather than a decision for the Minister or myself, thankfully. He sounds a bit harsh in that regard.

The woman I am talking about has not left her house once during the eight months of the Covid-19 pandemic. She is suitable for the scheme because she is severely physically disabled. As I stated, six months have gone already. Is the Minister telling us now that the Bill will be signed into law and that he hopes the amendment will be passed - I do not foresee anybody opposing it - and the review will then be carried out? He mentioned it will form part of the finance Bill next year. How can it take 18 months or nearly two years to rectify a loophole the courts have identified in respect of this scheme that has been operating for decades? We want certainty here. I cannot wait until the finance Bill of 2021 for it to be rectified. The Government regularly brings in legislation to suit banks and vulture funds. Hearsay legislation was brought it in through the health regulations. This issue needs to be dealt with. It is a very important scheme for people who fall ill or become disabled. I am not talking about getting the flu or Covid; I am talking about physical disability. I know what I am talking about and the Minister does too. There is no point being flippant about it. We want definite dates for this loophole to be plugged.

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