Vol. 532 No. 1
200 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures he proposes to take to ensure that all those aged 70 and over are advised of their right to a medical card from July 2001; the procedure for those applying; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6706/01]
The operational responsibility for the processing and issuing of medical cards lies with the health boards and the boards are engaged in the process of determining the implementation measures necesasary to ensure the timely and effective introduction of the budget commitment in their region. The process will become much more visible in the next few months as all boards finalise their implementation strategies prior to the stated operative date of 1 July.
In addition, my Department will, well in advance of the 1 July start date, place notices in the national newspapers and on the Department's website giving details of the scheme and advising all people aged 70 and over to apply to their local health board for a medical card.
