Backlash continues over medical-card changes

The backlash over changes to the over 70s medical card scheme is continuing.

Last night the Health Minister Mary Harney announced modifications to the original Budget plans.

The criteria for the means test have been adjusted slightly so that people over 70 whose income is the same as the State contributory pension will now qualify for the full medical card.

People over that threshold will be eligible for a GP-only card or a payment of €400 a year depending on their financial status.

Chief Executive of Irish Nursing Homes Organisation Tadhg Daly said this change will make very little difference to elderly people needing care.