Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is really a matter for the Minister for Health but because it is a stamp duty it falls under the Taxes (Consolidation) Act and is dealt with every year in the Finance Bill. The Department of Finance is merely obliging the Minister for Health to provide for the funds required for the purposes of the exercise. The last thing any of us want is to segment the market in such a way as to make it virtually impossible for older people to get health insurance. I agree with the Senator that we have seen significant increases in this area in recent years. He makes a valid point that the people who are opting out are those of a working age who cannot afford to meet their payments because they are under pressure. This is a wider issue for the Minister for Health. May I suggest the Senator consider tabling a Private Members' motion on the matter.