Doctors seek price hikes on drink and cigarettes
Doctors are looking for a €2 per packet hike in the price of cigarettes and an increase in excise duty of 20% on all alcohol beverages.
In its pre-budget submission for 2004, the Irish Medical Organisation is also pushing for a medical card to be issued to anyone earning below the minimum wage.
IMO President Dr James Reilly said more revenue will be pumped into health if taxation is increased on drink and cigarettes.
The organisation also recommended the appointment of 1,500 extra hospital consultants and the extension of cervical and breast cancer screening nationwide.
