Free GP care for five and under in 2014.
Fine Gael TD for Dublin Fingal, Alan Farrell, has today (Tuesday 15th October) welcomed the news that the Department of Health has secured funding in the 2014 Budget for the introduction of free GP care for children aged five years and under from next year.
“This is a significant step towards ensuring equality in our health system as up to 240,000 families are expected to benefit from the scheme. Our goal remains free GP care for all and we will continue to work hard to deliver”.
“The Government’s announcement today will bring much welcomed comfort to families across Dublin Fingal which has the youngest age demographic in the state. Today’s measure will bring thousands of parents much needed comfort that our plan in government is working.
“Free GP care for under 5’s will ensure that many hard pressed families will no longer have to weigh up the option of going to the doctor because of the cost. Legislation is still needed to ensure this proposal becomes a reality and it’s now up to the Government to ensure that this is achieved in a timely fashion.”
“The initiative will cost €40m and is a clear sign that we are not afraid to spend money where it is needed despite the very significant budgetary constraints present.