Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State and his officials for their courtesy. Unfortunately, we have a great deal of experience of Health (Amendment) Bills in the House. It is amusing that the Government tabled an early signature motion on the legislation. I hope the President signs it into law, as requested. I also hope we have learned from past mistakes as it is depressing that the people have given up on the health service because they feel nobody can sort it out. That is a bad reflection on all of us and does not serve politics well. It is in everyone's interest that we should have a good and vibrant health service.

I hope the legislation will address a number of anomalies. It is regrettable that the Government is pressing ahead with the doctor-only medical cards on a long-term basis. That was not proposed in the programme for Government nor in election manifestos of the Government parties. They made a commitment to issue 200,000 extra traditional medical cards. The electorate has been short-changed and will realise that over time. It is also regrettable that our amendment was not accepted. The Government should extend the doctor-only medical card eligibility to include optical and dental benefits and examination fees because even that would be more acceptable. People can offset pharmacy charges through the drugs refund scheme but the Minister should prioritise families with young children for medical cards.

I am not fully confident the Government's approach to supply everybody over the age of 70 years with a medical card is sound. The Government is more into gimmicks and spin than substance and it has been found wanting on recent occasions. I thank the Minister of State for his help on the legislation. I hope the issues raised will ensure the provision of a proper health service.