Free GP-care cards for under-5s face delay

The plan to provide GP-care cards to all children aged five and under regardless of their parents’ income was confirmed but it will not take effect until the middle of next year at the earliest because of the need for new legislation and contract negotiations with GPs.

Minister for Primary Care Alex White rejected suggestions, however, that opposition from family doctors could hold up the scheme, despite criticisms from the Irish Medical Organisation — one of the unions representing GPs.

“We respect and need the support and participation of doctors in a project like this and we will be talking to them but policy is made by the Government,” Mr White said.