Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick East, Labour)

I thank the Minister for providing a degree of clarification. However, she indicated that it will be 18 to 24 months before there is a decision by the European Court of Justice. Presumably, on that basis, it might be possible to extend the timeframe further in September, if necessary. Does the Minister intend to do so? She has indicated that the VHI will require an injection of capital in any case. Has she any proposals in this regard? I understand the House will not return from its recess before 1 September which means we will not have an opportunity to express a view on this. The Labour Party is completely opposed to the possibility of privatising the VHI. Moreover, we would like to see more non-profit insurers entering the market. I am not sure how likely that is given the requirement for 40% of capital to be set aside.

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