Gay Mitchell
Question:221 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children the issues raised by the Irish Medical Organisation in its discussions with his Department in relation to medical cards for all persons aged 70 years and over; and the reason his Department pays over five times more for new patients than it pays for those aged over 70 who were entitled to a medical card before the change in the rules; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25545/01]