Michael Healy-Rae (Kerry South, Independent)
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To ask the Minister for Health his views on the correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37815/12]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Labour)
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Under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest (FEMPI) Act 2009, an 8% reduction in a range of GP fees and allowances was introduced in 2009, which effected full year savings in the region of €34 million. Further reductions to a range of fees and allowances were introduced in 2010, which effected full year savings in the region of €44 million.

In relation to the specific comment re fees in respect of patients aged 70 or over, I wish to point out that the annual capitation fees in respect of such patients were reduced in 2009 as follows: From €304.68 to €280.31, where the patient is residing in the community; From €973.99 to €896.07, where the patient is residing in a private nursing home (approved by the HSE) for continuous periods in excess of five weeks.

In 2010, the latter fee was further reduced from €896.07 to €448.04. Under FEMPI legislation, the Minister for Health is required to carry out a review of the operation, effectiveness and impact of the amounts and rates fixed under regulations each year. A review was carried out in 2012, at which time it was decided that the rates set in the regulations be left unchanged at present.

Seán Fleming (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Health when the up to date needs assessment report will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37816/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.