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Dáil
‹ Order of Business

GP evidence for welfare schemes

Summary

Healy-Rae asks the Government to reverse a policy requiring consultants’ letters instead of GP evidence for social-protection schemes; the Tánaiste says no legislation is promised on the matter.

We were given that commitment in the House and I want the Tánaiste to tell me why the Government is doing a U-turn on that commitment.

The second item relates to the Health (Amendment) Bill. The Department of Social Protection has ensured that in the majority of cases, GP evidence is no longer acceptable and consultants' letters are required when applying for the many schemes it administers, putting another financial burden on already struggling householders. Will the Government reverse this policy?

Comment on this

There is no legislation promised in respect of either of those matters. There is nothing to prevent local organisations or local authorities from acquiring the Garda stations that are no longer in use and that are available for alternative use.

Comment on this