Jerry Buttimer (Cork South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

If that hypothesis is taken to its logical conclusion, there is no benefit to having private health insurance. I have to pay for a procedure. I do not mean to be offensive, but is it potentially the case that we have got it wrong in terms of the advice the HIA is giving the Department on health insurance? We have seen a 56% increase in the premium paid per insured person from the time Deputy Kelleher was in government to now. It beggars belief. I listen to people every day of the week. Mr. Sloyan said himself a few moments ago that 10,000 people have left the system since our last meeting in October. People are opting out of different categories. We have too many choices. If I have to pay for a procedure when I am paying a premium for health insurance, it makes no sense.