Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

The final line of the Minister's reply comes directly from Sinn Féin policy. The only difference is that the Government intends to introduce an insurance-based model as opposed to universal entitlement to health care. Before the general election, the Minister promised a detailed breakdown of Fine Gael's proposed insurance-based model. However, that information has not been forthcoming. Following the Minister's initial reply to these questions, we know nothing more about what is proposed. Will the Government's model be based on the State as insurer or will the existing insurance companies form part of what is intended? Is the Minister in a position to indicate what might be the actual contribution per citizen or what the State might be obliged to contribute if it is intended that it pick up the tab for those who cannot afford to make payments themselves? Can he comment on any or all of those critical matters? When will we see the real detail of what is proposed? I welcome the Minister's clarification to the effect that the White Paper will be produced earlier than he indicated in the House not that many weeks ago.

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