The Government's decided it's going to return discretionary medical cards taken off those with serious medical conditions over the past three years.
The Cabinet's approved a plan which doesn't require a change in the law and can see cards returned in a matter of weeks.
A statement from the Department of Health says the Government could not stand over the removal of cards from those with an acute medical condition, or a lifelong condition – including a disability.
The decision to return cards without changing the law follows intensive negotiations with the Attorney General.
Minister James Reilly and the Head of the HSE will outline more details on the return of medical cards in a press conference later this afternoon.