We use Google Analytics to see which pages are read and how the site is used, so we know what to improve. This only runs if you accept. See our privacy notice for details.

Dáil
‹ Order of Business

Free GP care for children

Summary

Adams asked about GP contracts, HSE capacity and the timetable for free GP care for under-sixes; the Taoiseach expressed hope that contracts would proceed and linked the measure to wider health reform.

If GPs do not agree to the new contract will they lose from their practice those under-sixes who currently have a medical card or a GP visit card? Is the Taoiseach confident that the HSE can cope with the registration of an additional 270,000 children?

Comment on this
Seán Barrett An Ceann Comhairle Fine Gael

That is not a matter for the Order of Business.

Comment on this

Does he expect this free GP care service for under-sixes to be in place by mid-July, as promised?

Comment on this
Enda Kenny The Taoiseach Fine Gael

The Health (General Practitioner Service) Bill is being taken today in the House and Deputy Adams will have an opportunity to comment on it. Deputy Adams asked about GP contracts. I hope these contracts are accepted and that we move on with these necessary elements of the under-sixes, over-70s and under-11s before we can have universal health insurance.

I gave an indication of when the working group on the protection process would produce its report. I do not speak for Mr. Justice MacMahon, who has an extensive knowledge of all of the complexities involved. My understanding is that he expects to submit his final report to the Minister before the end of May. I know from speaking to him that the range of cases arising has been much more extensive than one might have imagined. I do not wish to speculate on the outcome but it will be debated in the House when the Minister publishes it. It is a matter of considerable importance. The answer to the Deputy's question is that it will be debated here.

Comment on this