On 1 January 2014 there were 1,849,380 individuals covered by a medical card. On 31 March 2014, the number of individuals covered was 1,799,103. This means there has been a reduction in the register of 50,277. I have asked the HSE to provide the details directly to the Deputy.
All medical cards are subject to a periodic review of eligibility to determine continuing eligibility. The change in the number of existing cards will be dependent on the extent of ineligibility detected. It is important to note that where a medical card is withdrawn, it is not withdrawn due on the cost implications for the HSE. In accordance with the Health Acts, a medical card can only be withdrawn due to eligibility not having been established.
I can advise the Deputy that probity measures are estimated to yield €23m in savings in 2014.