Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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Question 545: To ask the Minister for Health when free general practitioner care as outlined in the Programme for Government will be introduced; the timeframe for same; the illnesses or disabilities to be covered under the new provision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27731/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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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 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 people with certain long-term illnesses. It is my intention to have the Bill published and enacted before the summer recess.