Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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295. To ask the Minister for Health the status of the roll-out of free GP care for children aged six and seven years, as announced as part of Budget 2023; the timeline for the roll-out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29014/23]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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The expansion of GP care without charges to all children aged 6 and 7, whereby all children aged 6 and 7 will be entitled to a GP visit card based on their age, is intended to commence as early as possible. At present all children under 6 years of age are entitled to a GP visit card.

My officials and the HSE have made preparations for the expansion. Engagements were held by my Department and the HSE with the IMO, representing GPs, throughout last year, and engagement is ongoing in relation to the necessary fee structures for this service.