James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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I move amendment No. 5:

In page 8, line 38, after "stay" to insert ", on or after 31 March 2013,".

Following consultation with insurers I have decided to commence the new risk equalisation rates from 31 March 2013. This is reflected in amendments Nos. 5 and 6. This period will provide a very useful window of time to insurers to trade into the new scheme. A hospital stay incurred under contracts effective from 31 March 2013 will have a hospital bed utilisation credit payable from the risk equalisation fund, while the current rates will remain in place from January to 30 March. I thank the insurers for their input to this because, in fairness, they must operate the market and there is no point in introducing legislation in a manner which makes the task ever more difficult.