asked the Minister for Health if there has been a change in the criteria for eligibility for a medical card for EEC pensioners, the reason for the change; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - EEC Pensioners.
486.
In accordance with the terms of EEC Regulations 1408/71 a person residing in Ireland who is in receipt of a social security pension from another member state is entitled to free health services (including free general practitioner services) in Ireland unless:
(1) he is also in receipt of a social security pension from the Department of Social Welfare, or
(2) he is pursuing a professional or trade activity in Ireland i.e. he is employed or self-employed in Ireland.
In these circumstances his entitlements will be in accordance with Irish legislation.
The foregoing criteria have not changed except that as from 1 July 1982 the regulations were extended to the self-employed and as a result a pensioner of another EEC country who is also self-employed in Ireland was included in the category of persons who took their entitlements from Irish legislation.
A special arrangement applies to certain United Kingdom pensioners resident in Ireland whose entitlements to health services derive from Irish legislation. Under a reciprocal agreement the United Kingdom have assumed liability for community health services where such pensioners are eligible for full hospital services.