Maria Byrne (Fine Gael)

I thank the Minister of State for coming to discuss this important Bill. It is all about fairness and balance. While I realise it is a very technical Bill, it is about quality of care. As the Minister of State said, almost half the people in Ireland have private health insurance and especially the older cohort. I was speaking to an older person recently who was talking about the cost of healthcare going up but said they would do everything to make sure they have it because it is so vital. It does not matter what age you are, young or old, your health is your wealth. Anyone who ends up in hospital, especially suddenly or overnight, wants to get the best level of healthcare. The Government subsidises it to keep down the cost, especially for older people, and it is about balance and fairness.

The Minister of State highlighted the whole area of stamp duty and also medical inflation. The costs are going up so it is about trying to keep down those costs. If the Government does not adjust the stamp duty rates each year, the scheme could run out of money. None of us want to see that happen, especially for the very sick and vulnerable people. There seems to be strong public support for it. Sometimes people do not realise they have an illness and it can come as a great shock. People will not be penalised regardless of whether they have minor health issues or issues which are more chronic. That is really important. On behalf of Fine Gael, we will support the Bill. It is really important to have a balanced and fair system and make as many health options open to all as we can.