Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 November 2014
392. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the promised free general practitioner care for those under six years of age; the progress to date in this regard; and when free GP care will be available to children under six years of age. [44050/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government committed to introducing, on a phased basis, a universal GP service without fees within its term of office, as set out in the Programme for Government. The Government has commenced this process in respect of all children under 6 years. The Health (General Practitioner Service) Act 2014, which provides an entitlement for all children aged under 6 to a GP service without fees, was enacted on 25th July 2014. Under a Framework Agreement, the Department of Health, the HSE and the IMO are engaged intensively on the introduction of GP services without fees for children aged under 6.
A number of meetings have already taken place between the parties. The Government's aim is to have universal GP care without fees for children under 6 years implemented early next year subject to the conclusion of the present discussions and the completion of a fee-setting process.
