Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
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Does the Minister wish to make a statement?

Ned O'Sullivan (Fianna Fail)
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I welcome the Minister of State to the House and compliment her on the passing of the Bill.

Colm Burke (Fine Gael)
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I welcome the Minister of State. The only thing we all need to be conscious of in regard to health insurance is that we do everything possible to try to prevent further increases. The risk equalisation arrangement makes sure there is a level playing field for everyone, regardless of age. I welcome the Bill from that point of view but we have to deal with the cost of private health insurance. If at all possible, we should do everything we can to try to prevent the cost of private health insurance from increasing dramatically over the next few years.

Maire Devine (Sinn Fein)
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I cautiously welcome the Bill. Obviously, our stance is that the best approach is to provide universal health care for all citizens on an equal basis and on the basis of need alone.

Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)
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I thank the Minister and the Senators.