Consumer Association says ‘no justification’ for health hikes

The Consumer Association has reacted angrily to the new health increases announced last night.

It will now cost €40 to go to an accident and emergency unit without a referral note from a doctor.

The drugs payment scheme threshold has also been increased, by 20% from €53 to €65.

The Chairman of the Consumer Association Michael Kilcoyne says it raises serious concerns.

"The increases imposed by the minister are four times the rate of inflation, there is no justification for it whatsoever," he said.

He continued: "It's badly thought out and shows the Government is not serious about tackling inflation and prices in this country".