Tom Fleming (Kerry South, Independent)
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Question 624: To ask the Minister for Health when free general practitioner care will be made available to persons on the long term illness scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32017/12]

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 making of regulations 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. A Memorandum for Government was approved at today's cabinet meeting and the matter will now proceed to the Whip's Office to come before the Dail as soon as possible.