Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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To ask the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the roll out of free general practitioner care; the expected date for the roll out of free GP care to those with long term illnesses; the way these delays will impact upon the delivery of universal primary care; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41084/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The Programme for Government committed to reforming the current public health system by introducing universal GP care without fees within the first term of office of this Government. Primary legislation is required to give effect to this commitment.

In April, the Government authorised the Department of Health to prepare a general scheme of a Bill in line with commitment in the Programme for Government. In July, the Government approved the general scheme of a Bill that will enable me to make regulations to extend access to GP services without fees to persons with prescribed illnesses.

The Department is currently working with the Office of the Attorney General on preparing the legislation which I expect will be published during the current session.

After the legislation has been enacted, the details of the new arrangements will be announced.