Feargal Quinn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I wish to add my voice to those of Senator John Crown and Senator Sean D. Barrett. I mentioned on Second Stage that I was aware of two large companies, one in the US and the other in South Africa, which have policies that their employees can influence, one of which is smoking. Therefore, they were able to give a reduction in their insurance charges for those people who ceased smoking. There were other steps in regard to obesity and those who joined health clubs. In other words, there are aspects of our health that we can influence ourselves. While community rating can certainly be accepted in regard to age and other areas, in regard to items that we can influence, particularly smoking, an exception should be made and I urge the Minister to accept the amendment.