Government statement on medical cards vindicates campaigners - Ó Caoláin

The statement of Minister of State Alex White on medical cards has vindicated campaigners and public representatives, who have highlighted the pain and hardship being caused by medical card reviews and cuts, according to a local TD.

Sinn Féin Health spokesperson Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin TD has said:
'The statement from Minister of State Alex White this afternoon is long overdue recognition by Government that the axing of discretionary medical cards has caused enormous hardship. This recognition has been forced on the Government by the voters in last Friday's elections. It vindicates campaigners and public representatives who have highlighted the pain and hardship caused by the medical card reviews and cuts, especially discretionary medical cards.
'We await more details from Government. The suspension of reviews of discretionary medical cards is welcome. But does this mean that cards currently under review will be reactivated? The decision to develop a framework for medical cards based on medical conditions is significant. Again much more detail, including a timeframe, is required.'