In November the report of the HSE clinical advisory group on medical cards in cases of terminal illness was published. The Minister for Health called on his Department to devise legislative options to give effect to the programme for Government commitment to extend eligibility for medical cards for patients who are terminally ill. What is the status of that review? Is there a plan for a public consultation to ensure the voices of patients, families, carers and advocacy groups are heard on this matter?

I thank the Deputy. I believe the review was published just before Christmas. Much to the disappointment of many people it did not recommend a change. Many people had expected a change to a two-year rule rather than a one-year rule, but for various reasons it was not recommended. I will definitely check up on it to see if I can get more information to the Deputy.