The extension of the medical card scheme to give automatic eligibility to persons aged 70 and over was announced in the budget and it is a well-established practice that such announcements do not involve prior consultation with parties which, in other circumstances, would be consulted.
Negotiations have taken place with the Irish Medical Organisation with a view to resolving this issue and, while some progress was made, these negotiations concluded early this morning without achieving a resolution.
While regrettable, I wish to make it clear that the Government is prepared, within reasonable limits, to concede significant increases in capitation payments to GPs in respect of persons aged 70 and over who avail of the new scheme, and efforts will continue to be made to resolve the issue. However, the Government regards the current demands of the Irish Medical Organisation concerning their participation in the new scheme as excessive in the context of the additional work involved, but efforts will continue to resolve the issue. It would not be appropriate to comment further at this stage on the detail of the negotiations.
I intend to sign the commencement order that will give effect to the Government's decision, subsequently given legislative effect by the Oireachtas. I feel obliged to do this because of the other benefits that accrue to holders of a medical card. Contingency arrangements have been made with health boards to issue medical cards. I hope it will be possible to reach an early resolution with the Irish Medical Organisation on outstanding matters.