Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 July 2016
513. Deputy Michael Collins asked the Minister for Health if those receiving a pension from the United Kingdom and living here will still be entitled to a non-means-tested medical card despite the United Kingdom no longer being part of the European Union, as in the case of a person (details supplied). [20750/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraRegulation (EC) 883/2004 deals with the coordination of social security, including health care, for those moving within the European Union. Under its provisions, persons residing in Ireland who are attached to the social security system of another member state, are entitled to receive health care services in Ireland at the cost of that member state provided they are not subject to Irish social security legislation. Persons in this category are entitled to full eligibility and receive a medical card as evidence of their entitlement.
The result of the recent EU Referendum in the UK means that the UK electorate have declared their wish to leave the EU. It is important to be clear that the UK has not yet left the EU. Until it formally withdraws from the Union, it remains a full Member, with all of its existing rights and obligations.
I wish to assure the Deputy that there will be no immediate changes in the area of health as a consequence of the UK’s decision to leave the EU. Health cooperation between the UK and Ireland will not be affected in the immediate term. Arrangements are in place, building on an already completed initial risk assessment plan, to consider any longer-term implications of the referendum result.
