Mr. Barry O'Brien:

That is correct. The HSE managers are seeking a commitment from all consultants to fully comply and sign private insurance forms within 14 days of receipt of all of the relevant documentation. The purpose of this provision is to effect a significant reduction in outstanding income due to the public health system. We have also advised consultants that persistent failure to comply will be addressed by the employer, under relevant procedures. Furthermore, we have also highlighted the need for co-operation with the secondary consultants scheme, whereby a secondary consultant involved in a case can sign the claim form if the primary consultant has not done so within a reasonable timeframe.