I wish to ask the Taoiseach about promised legislation in respect of the promise made to change the law on the basis on which medical cards are granted. Will he confirm that these measures will only be temporary, as it is the Government's intention to abolish all medical cards under the universal health insurance scheme?

No, we are not dealing with the content. When is the legislation or the proposals coming through?

Next Tuesday the Minister will bring his memorandum to the Government.

Will the Taoiseach confirm that it will just be a temporary measure as the Government intends to abolish all medical cards under the universal health insurance scheme?

We cannot have a debate on the issue of medical cards on the Order of Business.

Will the Taoiseach confirm that it is Government policy?

Yes, Government policy is to introduce universal health insurance.

Will it entail abolishing medical cards?

Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly is next.

It will require a transition period until universal health insurance is introduced.

I am sorry, but we are not having a debate on the issue.

The plan is to abolish all medical cards. Is that correct?

No, we are not having a debate on the issue.

I thank the Taoiseach for confirming it for me.