Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail)

I draw the Leader's attention to the Health (Amendment) Act passed here on 10 March and signed by the President on 11 March in accordance with an earlier signature motion. The Irish Medical Organisation has vetoed this Act. Must we have a health warning when we pass a Bill here "subject to the approval of the IMO"? A total of 200,000 people will qualify for medical cards under this legislation.

The IMO has vetoed the will of this House and of Parliament in this regard, a decision I resent. The IMO warmly welcomed the announcement by the Minister for Health and Children, and the Government, of the introduction of 200,000 doctor-only medical cards but has now vetoed the Act and wants to negotiate with the Minister.

The Minister should grant 200,000 full medical cards, as announced under the original agreement and leave aside the doctor-only medical cards if members of the IMO are not prepared to operate that scheme without further negotiation and funding. I regret very much that this health warning must be attached to all health Bills.

Will the Leader consider having a regular rolling debate on health issues? There is no other avenue through which we can make our constituents' case on health issues. No forum has been established under the Health (Amendment) Act to allow public representatives hear the views of the people. I regret the demise of the health boards because we now have no vehicle through which to make our case, except local media. That is why I regularly raise the issue here, irrespective of the consequences. I must continue unless there is some means by which we can make a more orderly contribution.