FF to force Down’s medical cards talk

Government TDs will come under further pressure over the removal of medical cards from children with Down’s Syndrome or serious illnesses when Fianna Fáil forces a debate on the issue in the Dáil after it returns from the Christmas break.

The party is to table a Private Members Bill which would ensure that children with chronic conditions, multiple illnesses or Down’s Syndrome would have the right to a medical card to ensure they have access to all the treatment and services they need.

All children up to the age of six will be entitled to free GP care from 2014, under a measure announced by the coalition in October’s budget.