Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 February 2026
281. Deputy Ryan O'Meara asked the Minister for Health if all funding has been allocated for the 2025-26 year under the social deprivation practice grant support; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13148/26]
View answerUnder the GMS scheme, the financial supports available to eligible GPs/GP practices include practice staff supports, locum contributions for leave taking, rural practice supports, and a contribution to GMS GPs medical indemnity insurance is also paid.
The 2019 GP Agreement introduced a grant to support GPs in socially deprived urban areas to provide additional services. The grant can be used for covering the costs associated with additional clinical supports such as increased doctor or nurse hours, increased key worker hours, or additional counselling hours to meet the needs of patients within the practice.
Following extensive engagement between relevant stakeholders, it was agreed in late 2025 that the distribution of the grant will be concentrated so that eligible GMS GPs will receive significantly increased amounts, allowing for more meaningful support for the practices concerned. This change applies for allocations awarded for 2025 onwards.
Following my approval, the relevant circular issued to GPs on the 28th of January. As the dispersal of the funds is an operational matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
