Critics scathing of medical charges

Critics are scathing of the new medical charges announced yesterday by the Minister for Health.

Labour says, that it will force more people into signing up for private medical insurance, while Fine Gael maintains that the poorest strata of society will suffer most. The Consumer Association is also reacting angrily, maintaining that the move will drive up inflation yet again.

Chairman Michael Kilcoyne says it is reckless. "The Consumers' Association is going to continue to highlight the causes of inflation in this country," he said.

"But it is appalled that the Government, who is in charge of controlling inflation, appears to be completely ignoring it."