Fiona O'Loughlin (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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174. To ask the Minister for Health the procedure for assisting Irish persons to return home when they fall ill in another European country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48521/18]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Anyone travelling abroad within the EU should apply for a EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) before they travel. The card ensures that a  person will get the same access to necessary medical treatment under public sector health care (e.g. a doctor, a pharmacy, a hospital or a health care  centre) as nationals of the country they are visiting. The Department would also advise  taking out adequate travel insurance before any trip abroad.

My colleagues in the Department of Foreign Affairs provide consular assistance to Irish Citizens wishing to return home when they fall ill in another country through the nearest Irish Embassy or Consulate. In that regard, I would advise the Deputy to contact the Department of Foreign Affairs directly on this matter.