Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 5:

In page 4, between lines 48 and 49, to insert the following:

"(c) Upon separation or divorce each spouse can opt to be assessed either as an individual or as a spouse or, following a divorce, as if they remained spouses for the purposes of the determination of their gross income as prescribed by this Act to the effect that should either be eligible following an individual assessment, or as a result of being treated as spouses, they will receive or retain a medical card.".

I accept the Cathaoirleach's ruling that amendment No. 4 is out of order. It is most unfortunate that three years after a person being widowed, a medical card will be taken from them.