evidence: Today’s development is the first of two phases of expansion which will provide free GP care to an estimated 430,000 people in Ireland on a means-tested basis. The second phase will take place in November. Last month free GP care was also made available to 78,000 children aged 6 and 7. [...] "I am delighted that we will be implementing this expansion with the agreement of the IMO," Minister Donnelly added. "We collaborated successfully with general practice through the period of the Covid pandemic, when GPs displayed an extraordinary commitment to delivering patient care. I look forward to continuing our collaboration as we embark on this historic expansion of free GP care. "The expansion of the GP visit card scheme in 2023 is a significant milestone as we bring free GP care to close to 500,000 people this year. I am committed to ensuring affordable access for people in Ireland who are facing the toughest economic challenges. Removing the cost barrier to visiting their GP gives them better access to health care and supports their health and wellbeing."