Derek Keating (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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271. To ask the Minister for Health his plans to develop a full eye test service for children, unemployed people, medical card holders and those paying full PRSI contributions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54733/13]

Alex White (Dublin South, Labour)
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Children under 6 years of age and children of primary school age are provided with an optical screening service by the HSE. Any refractive errors are treated and spectacles or other appropriate care is provided where necessary. Children between 12 and 16 years, whose parents are in receipt of a medical card are eligible for HSE eyecare services when they are named on their parents' cards. Other children between 12 and 16 years are eligible to be seen by a HSE eye doctor when there is a medical reason for the eye condition, rather than a refractive error. Such patients may be referred for treatment after being examined by an optometrist. In addition, eye testing, treatment and optical appliances are available to medical card holders. Responsibility for the Treatment Benefit Scheme, which provides dental, optical and aural services to insured workers and retired people who have the required number of PRSI contributions, lies with the Minister for Social Protection.