The means test for the over 70s medical card should be re-named a 'mean test’, according to the Fine Gael spokesperson on Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Michael Ring. The Mayo TD said the means test was causing senior citizens untold anxiety and pressure.
Dep Ring stated: “Under the new regulations the over 70 applicants have to send their forms to Dublin and this involves a lot of paperwork. I would have to question the cost factor in all this.”
He continued: “The means test for the over 70s medical card should be re-named from a means test to a ‘mean test’. It is again putting anxiety and pressure on elderly people. I believe it is wrong what the Minister has done and it should be reversed,” concluded Dep Ring.