James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

There are many similarities and differences between ourselves and Sinn Féin. One of the differences is that Fine Gael and Labour will deliver because they are in government. We are in a position to do what I have outlined and we will do it. We do not aspire to do what is proposed, we intend to deliver on our promise.

The Deputy asked a number of extremely reasonable questions in respect of the shape of the proposed universal health insurance system, the likely level of premia, the way matters will be organised, and so on. It would be wrong of me to pre-empt or second guess the implementation group on universal health insurance which will study this matter and produce well thought out recommendations on how we might proceed. What is proposed is a major step for health reform here and there are many who feel it will not be possible to deliver what is envisaged, particularly at a time of such economic difficulty. We will deliver but it will be necessary to engage in careful planning, thought and implementation in respect of the proposed system. Approaching this matter in the way in which we previously stated we would - namely, by fixing what is already in place, obtaining better results in respect of the resources at our disposal and then moving towards a universal health insurance model - offers the best chance of success. Citizens will not be interested in everyone being insured if people are obliged to wait nine months for a colonoscopy.

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