Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 139: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether EU nationals are entitled to an over 70s medical card having been long time residents here and having attained the appropriate age, in view of the fact that they have over the years been issued with a medical card under Regulation (EC) 1408/71; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24321/08]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Regulation (EC) 1408/71 deals with the coordination of social security schemes, including healthcare, for those moving within the European Union. Under its provisions persons residing in Ireland who are attached to the social security system of another member state are entitled to receive healthcare services in Ireland at the cost of the member state to which they are attached. Such persons receive a medical card as evidence of their entitlement.

That entitlement is based in the above Regulation and not in the Health Act 1970, as amended. Such people continue to retain their entitlement to health services, irrespective of age. Consequently, the question of entitlement to an "over-70s medical card" does not arise as long as the individual remains attached to the social security system of another member state. The entitlements provided under Regulation (EC) 1408/71 are exactly the same as those provided under the Irish Health Acts. The provision of an "over-70s medical card" would mean Ireland could not bill the competent Member State for the cost of health care provided.