asked the Minister for Health if he has any proposals to raise the £60 farm valuation limit which is now the upper limit for those seeking hospital and specialist care in the middle income group.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Medical Care Eligibility.
7.
As I have stated on a number of occasions, I propose to extend limited eligibility for health services to the entire community. This will involve abolition of the £60 farm valuation limit which now operates in relation to the eligibility of farmers for certain services, including hospital and specialist services.
I have deferred this extension of eligibility while negotiations are in progress with the medical organisations on the operation of the extended services by their members.
Am I to take it that he is thinking of discarding valuations as a means of assessing eligibility?
It is hoped to abolish them.
Could the Parliamentary Secretary indicate when he would expect that to occur?
As I indicated, negotiations are being conducted with the medical organisations.
Would he indicate when he thinks these will come to a conclusion?
I do not believe in speculation in a matter of this kind.