WARNINGS of a €50 annual medical card fee and an increase in prescription charges for medical card holders failed to materialise, but the charges for getting medication will remain.

Government Ministers were today highlighting new measures in the Budget that will ensure access to GP care without fees to Long Term Illness Scheme claimants.

OFF-LICENCES may find it more difficult to renew their licences under plans being explored by the Government to limit underage and problem drinking.

AN initiative to crack down on over-prescription of powerful tranquillising drugs will be finalised by the Department of Health later this month.