Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I thank the Cathaoirleach for allowing me to raise on the Adjournment BUPA's decision to pull out of Ireland. Senator Brian Hayes proposed that statements on the issue be allowed on the conclusion of the Order of Business. If the Leader acceded to the request, I would be prepared to withdraw the matter I raised on the Adjournment. BUPA's announcement yesterday that it will withdraw from the Irish market is of profound importance in terms of health insurance, competition and public policy.

Unfortunately, no one should have been surprised by the decision because it has been flagged for almost five years. As recently as a fortnight ago, when the High Court adjudicated on this matter, the judge who ruled that the Government had the legal power to introduce risk equalisation, indicated that the introduction of risk equalisation would render BUPA financially non-viable. This reflects statements made by spokespersons from BUPA during appearances before the Joint Committee on Health and Children and other meetings. I am disappointed with the company's decision and the failure of the Minister to intervene in recent months. It would be helpful to have statements today on this major public policy issue affecting almost 500,000 policy holders. It is of fundamental importance and goes to the core of the issue of competition. The House must demonstrate its relevance by debating it.