Ferris 'entitled to medical card'

Sinn Fein TD Martin Ferris has responded to media reports this evening that he has a medical card to cover his expenses.

This is despite the fact that he is alleged to be earning nearly €100,000 annually.

The claim comes while his party colleague Sean Crowe campaigns for a medical card for a constituent who is 50 cent over the cut off point for the service.

However, Mr. Ferris this evening said that he was technically eligible to hold a medical card.

He says that the relevant authorities in the south west approved his medical card.

The deputy says that because he was employed for many years before being elected, he was then entitled to a medical card for three years when employed.