Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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112. To ask the Minister for Health if changes to the rent-a-room scheme that would remove the barriers for uptake by which persons with spare bedrooms do not wish to rent them out, as the income generated from doing so may impact on their ability to qualify for medical general practitioner visit cards; the steps he will take to address this anomaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40580/18]

Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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170. To ask the Minister for Health if changes to the assessment of rental income that is generated under the rent-a-room scheme for the calculation of means in order that it does not impact on income assessment for medical general practitioner visit cards will be considered in view of the ongoing housing crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40579/18]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 112 and 170 together.

There are no proposals at present to amend the current assessment guidelines for the granting of eligibility for medical cards or GP visit cards. However, I will ask my officials to discuss the Deputy's suggestion with officials in the Department of Housing and it should be noted that the gross income limits are reviewed annually and considered in the context of the budget.