asked the Minister for Health the number of patients who have had their medical cards withdrawn in South Tipperary since 1 July 1981.

As part of the ongoing review of entitlement to the general medical service, medical cards covering 3,300 people in South Tipperary were withdrawn between 1 July and 30 September 1981. In the same period medical cards were issued or re-issued in respect of 1,679 people.

Questions Nos. 458 and 459 postponed.