Pat Breen (Clare, Fine Gael)

No. We are discussing reductions, not scrapping taxes. Small reductions would be the most important factor. Last week's announcement regarding the VHI saw fears about further price hikes in health insurance, although that was outside the Government's control. This will place considerable pressure on the public health sector.

While doing some research tonight, I read a quote from Nobel Prize winning economist Milton Friedman, an adviser to President Ronald Reagan. Mr. Friedman stated: "The government solution to a problem is usually as bad as the problem". He must have been thinking about this Government. I urge it to support the Bill and the people. Small reductions mean much and governments can lead by example.

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