Fine Gael has made a series of healthcare promises today in what the party says are the first steps towards universal healthcare in Ireland.
The main government party announced this afternoon that it will remove the cost of healthcare for children by giving free GP care to under 18s by 2025.
The Minister for Health Simon Harris pledged that the policy would be implemented over the next five years in consultation with GPs.
The party also said it would abolish hospital charges for children in next year's budget.
Minister Harris promised free dental care for under 16s during the life of the next government and free baby boxes filled with clothes, nappies and blankets for all new arrivals.
He said: “Fine Gael believes a parent should never have to choose between the health of their child and the cost of care.
“We are now taking the next steps towards universal healthcare."
Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform Paschal Donohoe said the party "understands the cost faced by families in caring for their children" and believes that "cost should never be a barrier to children receiving basic healthcare".
Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil also launched its health policy this afternoon.
The party has promised 4,000 new nurses, up to 1,000 new hospital consultants and 2,600 new hospital beds if elected.
Speaking at a press briefing this morning, the party's health spokesperson Stephen Donnelly said they would be focusing on reducing waiting lists for treatment, retaining doctors and nurses, and managing budgetary issues.
Press Briefing on Health with Health Spokesperson Stephen Donnelly, Defence Spokesperson Jack Chambers and Seanad Leader Catherine Ardagh. https://t.co/sUFnulIuZE
— Fianna Fáil (@fiannafailparty) January 20, 2020
Additional reporting by Seán Defoe
