John Crown (Independent) | Oireachtas source

It is very difficult for me to escape the conclusion that a very deliberate decision was made that a particular service should in future become a public service. It had been safely, adequately and efficiently provided in the private sector, fulfilling all the requirements one would have for private insurance. These are that it would provide an appropriate level of care and reduce the burden on the overly stretched public service while giving individuals a degree of choice. All of these beneficial effects have been lost. It is not a small or rare procedure; it is common. I do not wish to say too much more about this under Seanad privilege but I may discuss it with the Minister in future. A real problem will arise, specifically in a place that would traditionally be a catchment area for greater south Dublin, with respect to a broad range of services that will no longer be available, except following referral to a national referral service.