asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that people on social welfare pensions now automatically qualify for medical cards while people working and receiving the same weekly amount will not qualify; and if he will correct this anomalous situation.

All recipients of social welfare pensions, benefits and allowances aged 66 years and over have been eligible for the general medical service scheme since 1 July 1982. I am aware that an anomaly on the lines described by the Deputy exists in regard to a number of these persons. The matter is being reappraised at present.