Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 653: To ask the Minister for Health the progress being made in providing general practitioner visit cards to persons who are on the long term illness scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29628/12]

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 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 as soon as possible.