Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 614: To ask the Minister for Health the position regarding the extension of free general practitioner cover to persons in receipt of long term illness benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24928/12]

Billy Timmins (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 626: To ask the Minister for Health the position regarding the allocation of free general practitioner visits medical cards for persons who have long term illnesses; when same will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25055/12]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 614 and 626 together.

The Programme for Government commits to reforming the current public health system by introducing Universal Health Insurance with equal access to care for all. As part of this, the Government is committed to introducing Universal GP Care within its first term of office.

Primary legislation is required to give effect to this commitment. The Department of Health is currently drafting legislation to provide for the phased introduction of a universal GP service without fees in line with the commitment set out in the Programme for Government. Initially it is intended to extend GP cover without fees to persons with certain long-term illnesses. It is my intention to have the Bill published and enacted before the summer recess.