Kerry MPs shocked by apparent cut in cataract program reimbursement

Two Kerry MPs say they are shocked by an apparent cut in the amount reimbursed for the cataract programme.

The HSE is understood to be reducing the amount awarded under the Cross-Border Cataract Treatment Reimbursement Scheme from over €1,900 to just over €800.

Radio Kerry has contacted the HSE for clarification but has not yet received a response.

For several years, independent MPs Michael and Danny Healy-Rae have been organising buses to transport people from Kerry to Belfast to have cataracts removed.

They say they will continue to operate the bus to Belfast as long as the demand is there.

MP Michael Healy-Rae said they wanted answers about why the cuts were being made:

Meanwhile, MP Danny Healy-Rae says many people will no longer be able to afford the operation: