Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

We have hardly any experience of public private partnerships. We have experience of public projects being constructed by the private sector. Public private partnerships are about transferring the risk from the public to the private sector, thereby allowing taxpayers' money to be used where one might not attract that kind of interest. As I have frequently noted, the idea that we should fund 100% of the capital cost of private beds in public hospitals and subsequently run them does not make any sense from the perspective of patients in the health care system.

I hold no brief for any company. As for the company in question, I understand the HSE has proceeded to expressions of interest and has not yet awarded any tenders for any co-locations. Obviously, a strict due diligence process is required. However, for fairness, I note the company in question has strongly refuted the allegations made by the Deputy.

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