Prescription charge move expected

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Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has said he intends to publish fresh proposals on prescription charges.

Mr McGimpsey said he would have moved earlier on his review of prescription charges had the Executive met during the summer.

On Tuesday the prime minister said prescription charges for cancer patients in England would be scrapped.

While Mr McGimpsey would not be drawn on whether he will match the move, it is thought he will do so shortly.

"I've always known the way that I want to go forward on this issue.

"I believe passionately in the health service as a cradle to the grave service, free for all citizens at point of delivery and that includes medicines," he said.

"I have a review, I'm in a position to go forward with that review and I will publish and I will indicate my proposals at a very early stage."

He was speaking at the sod-cutting ceremony for a new £140m critical care unit at the Royal Victoria Hospital on Wednesday.