Vol. 559 No. 3
120 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason an application from a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny for assistance with payment of road tax has not been processed by the SEHB; the reason an appointment which was made in October 2002 was cancelled; the reason a new appointment has not been made; and if the application will be expedited. [26196/02]
I understand that the allowance to which the Deputy refers in the question is the motorised transport grant.
The assessment of entitlement to and payment of the motorised transport grant in any individual case is a matter for the relevant health board. Accordingly, the Deputy's question has been referred to the chief executive officer, South-Eastern Health Board with a request that he examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.
121 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the eligibility of a medical card holder to IVF treatment; the limitation or restrictions involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26197/02]
IVF treatment is not publicly funded. In the case of the services provided in the Rotunda and in the University College Hospital, Galway, the costs are met by charges to patients and, within this, there is some cross-subsidisation to allow treatment to be provided free to medical card holders. Health boards contribute to the cost of the drugs used in the process. In addition, patients are eligible for tax relief on medical expenses.
