The Manx Diabetic Group charity is appalled by the government’s proposal to levy a prescription fee on island residents who have a chronic illness.

MDG chairwoman Joanne Clague says: ’This tax on the sick affects the most vulnerable in our society. It’s also debatable how much income will be generated against the administration costs of issuing pre-payment certificates.

’All prescriptions are free in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Our politicians have been citing the English model as an example, where prescription charges are £8.60 per item compared to the proposed £5 per item here. But, in England, those with a chronic illness remain exempt from charges.

’The additional revenue raised would be minimal after administration costs and excluding children, the over 75s and those on benefits. The Department of Health and Social Care has given no indication of how much would be raised.

’There are many vulnerable individuals and families who struggle to cope with the daily challenges of living with a chronic illness. Not all diabetics will be able to manage this extra stress. People will start skipping their medication and ultimately deliver a much bigger burden on health services when complications set in. The complications of diabetes include blindness, heart disease, stroke, amputation and kidney failure.

’The Manx Diabetic Group does not believe that imposing prescription charges on chronically ill people, many of whom have a life-limiting condition, is a suitable means of raising money for our health services. It’s a quick fix that simply won’t work in the long term. Health is sacrosanct - it should not be means-tested.

’We are urging the Health Minister to reconsider a blatantly unfair and unworkable proposal.’

The Manx Blind Welfare Society made similar comments last week.