asked the Minister for Health whether he will consider making free medical and hospitalisation services available to all old age pensioners without a means test.

The classes of persons eligible for the health services and the method of determining eligibility will be considered by the Select Committee on the Health Services. I propose to await the result of the committee's deliberations before considering any change in the present law and procedures on the particular issue raised by the Deputy. I should say, however, that I have no reason to believe that necessary health services are not readily available to old age pensioners.

Sometimes, when the sons or daughters of old age pensioners are negligent, the old age pensioners themselves suffer. It is for that reason I put down the question.

Did the Minister not express an opinion about two years ago that he believed all old age pensioners should have free medical services?

I have nothing to add to the reply I have given. The matter is still under examination and I feel I am precluded from expressing an opinion here.

The Minister did express that opinion.

If it is on record, the Deputy can verify it.

I was glad the Minister did.