Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I take the Minister's point but would like to return to the logistics of the issue. The Minister may correct me if I am wrong but if his figure is wrong, one way or the other, Schedule 1 would have to be amended. Is the Minister saying that following conclusion of the assessment by the Health Insurance Authority or other intermediary, agreement will be reached by both sides in regard to how the €30 million is to be calculated? When issues have arisen in the past in relation to health insurance legislation, the Department has been slow to amend it. Can the Minister assure the House that if the figures set out in Schedule 1, as amended, are not achieved the Schedule will be amended or is he saying that the amount set out is the actual cost of these beds to the Exchequer on a daily basis? I am seeking clarity on the logistics of this provision. Is flexibility in this regard built into this legislation? If so, it is important that those changes would come before the House or, at least, the committee, for consideration before adoption.

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