An independent Senator says the Department of Health and HSE are 'incompetent'.

John Crown - who is also a leading cancer specialist - is criticising a decision which means non-terminal cancer patients will no longer be guaranteed a medical card.

The move has been confirmed by Health Minister James Reilly.

Last December Senator Crown called for the use use of cheaper generic drugs for the public. He said pharmaceutical companies would not be put off coming to Ireland if we prescribe the generic versions.

His comments came as the government was attempting to bring down the cost of drugs here.

At the time, the Senator said "If we're going to have the money to afford the expensive (drugs) - the ones that are not yet generic - we have to use the generic versions of the older drugs, and in the process have huge savings".

Speaking on Newstalk Lunchtime today, Senator Crown said the Irish health service is being run by bureaucrats and its failing.