Mr. Colm Desmond:

In recent years he health sector has benefited from Supplementary Estimates which can vary, depending on requirements. As explained, the position on overruns is that they are mainly driven by demographics and unforeseen events which require a Supplementary Estimate. Historically, the position has varied to a fair degree and it has not necessarily been for technical reasons. In recent years, for instance, a significant additional allocation of €500 million was made in one year and it was not technically a Supplementary Estimate. The nature of the health sector is such that there is a degree of unpredictability in service requirements but also in other areas which are not service related such as those I mentioned in my opening statement.

I can also answer the questions about Sláíntecare, if the committee so wishes.