Medical card restored to 102-year-old blind man after Gerry Adams raises case in Dáil

» Mark Moloney

His family are relieved as he is partially blind and deaf and needs constant care

A 102-year-old blind man whose hearing is also seriously impaired has had his medical card restored after his situation was raised in the Dáil by Gerry Adams.

There was disbelief among many when Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams read out a letter from the Waterford man's family in the Dáil chamber last Wednesday which explained how the 102-year-old had his medical card withdrawn following a review by the Health Service Executive.

The letter pointed out that because the man is blind and deaf, he requires the presence of a responsible adult at all times to help with simple tasks such as cooking and getting around. This means his children, who are retired, travel long distances to be with him.

However, shortly after the issue was publicly raised by Sinn Féin, the HSE reversed its decision.

Waterford Sinn Féin Senator David Cullinane told followers on his Facebook page:

“Some good news. Jimmy, who is 102 years young and had his medical card removed following a review, has had it reinstated in full.”