Medical cards for children
Senator Wilson endorses concerns about banks and repossessions, then asks about the proposal to provide medical cards to children with special needs.
I endorse everything that my colleague, Senator Paul Coghlan, has stated about the banks, home repossessions and how the issue of insolvency is being handled. Some time ago, I mentioned my concerns about the ways in which banks were using receiverships and I called on the Leader to arrange for a debate on same with the Minister for Finance. The receivership process is being abused by the banks.
I understand the Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch, proposed that all children with special needs, including those with Down's syndrome, should be entitled to medical cards.
To date, this has not happened. Members on all sides of this House have called for such a provision and I acknowledge the Leas-Chathaoirleach is an advocate for the provision of such cards to children with special needs, including those with Down's syndrome. I ask the Leader to inquire of the Minister of State, Deputy Kathleen Lynch, as to where stands her proposal in this regard.