Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)
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Question 164: To ask the Minister for Health and Children if medical cardholders are entitled to chiropody services in situations in which these services are essential as a result of their medical condition; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that these services are not available in some parts of the country to people who are under 65 years; if she will address this problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6527/09]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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There is no statutory obligation on the Health Service Executive (HSE) to provide chiropody services to GMS patients. However, in practice, arrangements have been made in several regions to provide these services. Before the establishment of the HSE the nature of any arrangements for community chiropody services and the level of service provided were a matter for individual health boards and so a degree of variation in practice developed over time. I understand that priority is usually given to certain groups of people, including people who are medical card holders aged 65 years and over. In several regions the service is provided by private chiropodists by arrangement with the HSE.

My Department is currently preparing legislation to clarify and update existing legislation on eligibility for health and personal social services.