My question relates to the programme for Government and the recent budget announcement of the welcome extension of medical cards to children in receipt of domiciliary care allowance. A recent parliamentary reply received from the Minister for Health stated that the heads and general scheme of a Bill are being prepared, but we have no timeline for the progression of this. That could prevent children getting the medical cards they deserve. Can the Minister provide a timeline around children in receipt of domiciliary care allowance?

The Government has already given approval to draft the heads of a Bill. I understand the Taoiseach gave a commitment that the Bill would be brought before Cabinet and, subsequently, to the House in the first quarter of next year.