Seymour Crawford (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)

I would like to make it clear that I have VHI insurance and was very glad to use it. Deputy Collins suggested that we should not complain and that everything is grand. Let him tell that to those who have paid VHI contributions all their working lives and who now in their latter years must pay an increase of 45% this year. Paying such an increase is a problem and thankfully some of the Deputy's colleagues on the Government side of the House admitted that.

I met a couple on Monday evening who are in their late 60s or early 70s. They have no other option but to cancel their health cover. The amendment to the motion put down by the Minister ignores the number of people on trolleys in Cavan, Cork and elsewhere. In his comments, Deputy Charlie O'Connor mentioned the problems in Tallaght. I welcome his constructive comments, which clearly showed his disappointment at the proposed VHI increases. While I will not be running in the next general election, I have no worries in regard to the ability of Fine Gael and the Labour Party, as questioned by Deputy O'Connor, to agree a health policy, which will be implemented by Deputy O'Reilly. Fine Gael will not roll over as did Fianna Fáil and the Green Party to a party of only two Members, one of whom, the Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Mary Harney, is now an Independent. The Minister will clearly welcome the VHI increases as the Department of Health and Children and Health Service Executive will benefit from increased bed and other charges. The VHI should negotiate reasonable prices and not introduce them ad libitum.

Deputy Dooley questioned Fine Gael's proposed new health policy. I have never questioned the front line staff in the health service. I can assure this House that under a health policy driven by Deputy Reilly there will not be a problem with front line staff. He will ensure that people will be given the wherewithal to ensure the patient counts. When I visited Cavan General Hospital last weekend, the patients said they were satisfied with the service but front line staff said they are under extreme pressure. Cavan General Hospital has the added benefit of having the highest number of beds and trolleys.

Is Deputy Conlon satisfied with the service being provided at Cavan General Hospital? Has she listened to the elderly and some of the families of the deceased in regard to the trauma they have suffered? We should be ashamed of our health service, which Deputy Reilly will rectify.

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