Kieran O'Donnell (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Chairman for allowing this issue to be elaborated on, because it is most important. A significant amount of work has been done since our last meeting in this area by the HSE but the issue needs to be driven home. This is taxpayers' money which could have a significant impact on people's lives. I call for every effort to be made by the HSE, people in individual hospitals, consultants and the insurance companies to ensure the €74 million is billed and substantially collected before the end of the year. This would give the HSE the flexibility to reduce the burden of cuts on hard-pressed people, many of whom are elderly, especially with regard to home help hours.