Camillus Glynn (Fianna Fail)

I am serious. It is a dangerous practice that is on the increase and much concern has been expressed about it.

I strongly support the remarks made by Senator O'Meara and others on the planning issues raised. All local authorities that have responsibility for planning should review their county development plans. The question of local need is being interpreted in a particular way by a significant number of planners. That people who have a long association with an area are not getting planning permission is a disgrace.

On the matter raised by Senator Finucane, he will be aware the Government has created a number of jobs. As the provision of medical cards is income related, it would be reasonable to assume that given the increase in employment, there would be a reduction in the number of medical cards.