Maire Devine (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for his response. Unfortunately, I do not think it is what is needed. We need to look at the applications. The Minister of State stated that almost 40,000 applications are made each month and that many are deemed invalid for one reason or another. We need to get data on this in order to be satisfied that we are going in the right direction. The main point I am making is that there is a need for fairness and equality in retrospectively accessing health or other social welfare benefits that are afforded to those in need. Retrospective access is possible when every other type of application is made for supports or benefits, but it is not possible in the case of medical cards. One could have a great deal of intensive inpatient treatment over a 15-day period. In many cases, the period is even longer because people have to reapply or obtain additional information they were unable to provide in the first instance. Vulnerable people with serious medical conditions do not need this extra hassle. I am of the view that what is happening is discriminatory.