John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1306. To ask the Minister for Health the date the order will be signed giving effect to the reduction in prescription charges; and the reason for the delay in establishing a commencement date. [20552/20]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

As part of Budget 2020, the previous Government agreed that GMS prescription charges would be reduced by €0.50c for all medical card holders. Accordingly, the charge would be reduced by €0.50c to €1 per item for persons aged over 70 years, and by €0.50c to €1.50 for persons under 70. The maximum monthly charge would also be reduced to €10 and €15 respectively.

The full year cost of implementing these measures is estimated at €25 million; a cost of €15 million for the under 70 cohort and €10 million for the over 70 cohort. 

I am consulting with my government colleagues on these proposals.