Noel Ahern
Question:414 Mr. N. Ahern asked the Minister for Health if he will allow baby minding expenses as approved allowance in respect of medical card applications from lone parents. [257/94]
Written Answers. - Medical Card Income Guidelines.
I have no function in relation to the medical card income guidelines. These guidelines are drawn up by the chief executive officers of the health boards, who have statutory responsibility for determining eligibility for medical cards.
I should state, however, that the guidelines are not statutorily binding. Where a person's income exceeds the guidelines, the chief executive officer of the relevant health board may still award a medical card if he considers that the person's medical needs or other circumstances would justify this. I am satisfied that the health boards give sympathetic consideration where the circumstances warrant it.