Two key cuts have been revealed by the Minister for Finance this weekend.In a decision that may prove unpopular, medical cards for over-70s are to be withdrawn.
‘This isn’t as bad as it sounds,’ said the Minister for Finance. ‘I have an uncle in Westmeath who’s always at the doctor’s, but it’s just to socialize. In some ways the waiting room is the new pub in rural Ireland. Taking your perscription is just something to do.’
‘At that age, having to remember anything keeps you on your toes. During the Celtic Tiger such practices were viewed benignly. But in the current climate the elderly will have to find ways of fighting isolation that are less costly to the public coffers.’
The second move is sure to send ripples of discontent through all Departments. In a move that will generate hundreds of millions for the exchequer, Mr Lenihan plans to let the entire civil service go.
The Finance Minister’s dislike of quangos was expressed as far back as two years ago, but his concern over the quality of the civil service has been longstanding.
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