Colm Burke (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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386. To ask the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if there will be a provision for an increase in optical benefit (eye examinations) payments claims by dispensing opticians and optometrists under the treatment benefit scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41481/23]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The Treatment Benefit Scheme provides dental, optical and aural services to insured workers, the self-employed, retired people and their dependant spouse/partner who have the required number of social insurance (PRSI) contributions.

The Department is not currently considering an increase in optical benefit payments. However, should a review of the optical Treatment Benefit scheme be considered in the future, any such review would have to be considered in a budgetary context.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.