Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Fine Gael)
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Question 241: To ask the Minister for Health and Children her plans to reinstate services (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38475/10]

Joe Carey (Clare, Fine Gael)
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Question 242: To ask the Minister for Health and Children the supports available to an Irish citizen currently living abroad (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [38476/10]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)
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The Health Act 1970 (as amended) governs eligibility for health services in Ireland. Eligibility for health services is primarily based on residency and means. A person is regarded as "ordinarily resident" in Ireland is he/she satisfies the HSE that it is his/her intention to remain in Ireland for a minimum period of one year.

In general, Irish nationals and non-nationals who have been resident outside Ireland, are not eligible for public health services under the Health Acts. However, under EU Regulations, a person who is attached to the social security system of another EU Member State may be entitled to public health services . In addition, where an Irish national is working abroad on a short-term contract, but does not intend to take up residence outside Ireland, or has been resident abroad for a period of up to three years but the HSE is satisfied that he/she has not established an entitlement to health services in any other country, such persons may be regarded as ordinarily resident in Ireland on return.