Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)
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Question 206: To ask the Minister for Health if he will explain the delays being experienced by applicants for medical cards and by persons who are appealing decisions not to grant medical cards; his views on whether this situation is acceptable; his plans to alleviate the misery being endured by those who are most vulnerable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37797/11]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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I have requested a report from the Health Service Executive on the matter raised by the Deputy. I will revert to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Jack Wall (Kildare South, Labour)
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Question 207: To ask the Minister for Health the position regarding an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37798/11]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Luke Flanagan (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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Question 208: To ask the Minister for Health how persons with long-term illnesses such as epilepsy will be affected by the proposed charges for medical cards and the proposed increase in the charge for prescriptions from 50 cent to €2; the person who will eventually pay for such medicines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37802/11]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Since October 2010, people with medical cards are charged 50c for medicines and other prescribed items that they receive from pharmacies, subject to a maximum charge of €10 per family per month. The prescription charge does not apply to items supplied under the Long Term Illness Scheme.

The Government is currently engaged in discussions concerning the Budget for 2012. As part of this deliberative process, many policy options are being discussed. No decision has been taken regarding an increase in the prescription charge.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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Question 209: To ask the Minister for Health if he will consider correspondence in relation to a person (details supplied); his views on whether it is acceptable that this person's medical card has been withdrawn; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37811/11]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.