Harris expects update 'very shortly' on claim HSE is halving reimbursement for cataract op

Michael Collins (right) speaking with passenger Don Payne on the Belfast or Blind bus. The service was set up by Deputy Collins and Kerry TD Danny Healy-Rae in December 2017. Picture: David Creedon

The Taoiseach has said he expects an update "very shortly" from the HSE on claims by a Cork TD that the HSE is to slash the reimbursement to people who go north for cataract treatment in half.

Simon Harris told the Dáil he asked the HSE for an update last week when Michael Collins said he had been told the HSE was to cut the reimbursements for the operations, under a cross-border scheme, from €1,950 to €811.

People on the Cataracts Express service, also known as the Belfast or Blind bus service, are mostly those who have been waiting years to get treatment or are starting to go blind.

The service was set up by Cork West Independent Ireland TD Michael Collins and Kerry TD Danny Healy-Rae in December 2017.

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As well as helping arrange appointments, they also help those planning to travel get credit union bridging loans for operations.

Mr Collins told the Taoiseach in the Dáil: "The original figure has been mercilessly slashed. This is not just an abuse of power, but a blatant disregard for our elderly citizens who depend on these funds for essential cataract surgery.

“This government’s decision is nothing short of outrageous. The hospitals in Ireland are incapable of providing timely surgeries.

“This (decision) could lead to many of our citizens suffering unnecessarily and going blind."

Saying that he was expecting an update from the HSE very shortly, Mr Harris said “nobody wants anyone to lose their sight”.