The Taoiseach's apologised to people who had their medical cards withdrawn.
Enda Kenny's told the Dail that many people suffered unnecessary stress as a result of a review of discretionary medical cards.
Around 13,000 medical cards, and a further 2,000 GP visit cards, are to be returned in the next three weeks after a Government U-turn.
The Taoiseach says the process caused a lot of stress to many people.
However people who have lost their cards and incurred medical expenses in the meantime will NOT get a refund.
The Health Minister James Reilly says cards were removed in accordance with the law – and there are no plans to reimburse people for their costs.
