Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 505: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the persons who are exempt from the means assessment of the over 70 years medical card due to EU regulations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1984/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
Link to this: Individually | In context

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. The provisions of Regulation (EC) 1408/71 supersede national eligibility provisions. Age is irrelevant to entitlements under the Regulation. That entitlement is based in the aforementioned Regulation and not in the Health Act 1970, as amended, and as such, the means testing arrangements do not apply to people qualifying under Regulation (EC) 1408/71.