Geraldine Feeney (Fianna Fail)

The Government is engaged in essential long-term planning and investment.

I wish to digress for a brief moment without being hounded for it. Two ground-breaking developments introduced by the Government in recent times are the ban on smoking and the treatment purchase scheme, the latter being one of the most innovative initiatives ever implemented. I smile as I say that in the presence of the Minister, Deputy Harney, because we know from where it came. We are very proud of it and it has taken, and continues to take, many people off waiting lists.

I would welcome a review of medical cards, including costs, to try to establish whether patients are getting the best value for the expenditure involved. We need to examine areas such as access, care, treatment and drugs. On taking up office recently, the Minister, Deputy Harney, pointed out that it is not merely a question of doctors' fees, the high cost of drugs is also a factor. Senator Henry alluded to this matter and I agree with her. Drugs are very expensive. If a review of medical cards is instigated, one could look at expanding the system. The Minister is courageous but she is also kind hearted in seeking its expansion.

I will not dwell for too long on the ESRI report to which previous speakers referred. Of course we are all concerned when we read about the growing body of evidence that suggests people do not go to their GPs because they do not have a medical card. They are putting their health at risk. A new class of people are no longer going to the doctor. When my children were quite young, which was not today or yesterday, if one of them was sneezing and sniffling on a Monday I would try to push him in with his brother so both of them would be sniffling and sneezing on Tuesday or Wednesday and I could take two for the price of one to the doctor. At that time I had four children under four years of age. I am sure young mothers today are no different than I was 15 to 20 years ago. If a review were to take place, I believe savings would be possible on the whole scheme and those savings could be used to expand it.

I would welcome the introduction of new ideas. What about the GMS operating in partnership with the VHI? The VHI could pick up part of the bill, or people could have a medical card for GP purposes only and would then pay their own drugs bills. Senator Browne claimed children under four should have medical cards. I would not broaden it that much. However, I would like to see large families with, for example, six children under six or four children under four where parents are strapped for cash——