126 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice if he will make a statement on the decision to reduce a recent increase in medical fees for services carried out for the Garda by general practitioners from 250 per cent to 37.5 per cent; the reason the reduction was backdated to 1 September, 1992, and doctors who received the new higher fees must pay back the difference; and if he will reverse the decision.

The scale of fees paid to doctors by the Garda Síochána in respect of medical examinations and reports was, due to an administrative error, increased by an incorrect rate with effect from 1 September, 1992. When the error came to light immediate steps were taken to apply the correct rate, which provides for increases in the order of 37.5 per cent. The correct rate of increase takes into account movements over and above general round increases — which have been applied to the fees in question in the normal way — in the pay of doctors in the Health Service since the fee structure was agreed with the Irish Medical Union and Irish Medical Association in 1981.

Due to overpayments having been made since 1 September, 1992, when the incorrect rate was applied, it has proved necessary to arrange for the recoupment over time of the amounts involved. The Irish Medical Organisation were advised of the position prior to these arrangements being put in place. The Deputy will appreciate that as taxpayers' money is involved it is incumbent on the State to seek repayment of the overpayments made.