I think it says a few things:
a) Social Welfare is seen as untouchable. How dare we reduce it! How dare someone suggest that those in receipt of it are undeserving (even when many many are)!
b) Medical card fees are extortionate. GPs are laughing all the way to the bank. 10 years as a GP and you can retire as a wealthy person, based on the Medical Card figures of a few docs I've seen in the local papers (and these were the ones in small rural communities, I dread to think what the ones with a much larger patient list are making!).
c)we're too feckin soft,
d) Socialism is an inherently good idea (the well-off contribute so that those unable to support themselves can have a comfortable existance).
e) Socialism 'Irish-style'(the better-off contribute so that those unwilling to support themselves can have a very comfortable existance) is a farce. Long-term unemployed are not questioned when it comes to employment opportunities. 'Single mothers' given free/massively subsidised accommodation while having their partner living with them for free. Proliferation of benefits making it un-worthwhile going to work. No means-testing of child benefit.
f) We need to put a limit on the amount of time that employable people can claim dole/unemployment assistance/medical cards/rent alowance/etc. It HAS to be done. We're breeding a generation of people who are well able to work but claim benefits instead. No jobs ? Well, where have all the immigrants worked for the past few years ?
g) Just because a person 'needs' state help/assistance, doesn't necessarily mean they deserve it or should be automatically entitled to it.
Phew, I feel better now.
This IS 'LOS' innit ?