Shane Ross (Independent)

This is a great opportunity for such a debate. Everybody knows VHI and BUPA are at each other's throats, not only for commercial reasons but because there is a clash of ideology between the semi-State and private sector. This topical issue presents an ideal opportunity for us to thrash it out in this House. Even if the Tánaiste cannot come, I ask the Leader to accommodate a debate with a Minister of State in order to make this House more relevant on an immediate issue.