Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 2 Mar 1999

Vol. 501 No. 3

Written Answers. - Optical Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

269 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the degree to which optical benefit is available to medical card holders who do not otherwise qualify for this benefit; the reason particular age groups are excluded from this treatment by the health boards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6238/99]

Minister for Health and Children (Mr. Cowen)

The optical services available through the health boards to medical card holders include both sight testing and provision of spectacles where these are required.

I have been advised by each of the boards that all medical card holders, regardless of age, are entitled to the full range of services.