Máire Hoctor (Tipperary North, Fianna Fail)

I do not propose to accept this amendment. Such a provision could have implications for eligibility for health services generally and requires more detailed consideration, rather than being rushed in by way of amendment to this Bill. Furthermore, the gross income limits are set at a level at which it is expected that the vast majority of persons over 70 will continue to hold a medical card. It is also open to them to apply for a medical card under the existing medical card scheme, which allows the HSE to exercise discretion in awarding medical cards in individual cases.