Paul Gogarty (Dublin Mid West, Green Party)
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Question 144: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the recent statement by BUPA Ireland that it may have to withdraw from the Irish market if risk equalisation is introduced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15370/05]

Willie Penrose (Westmeath, Labour)
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Question 147: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she intends to trigger the mechanism for risk equalisation following receipt of the recent report from the Health Insurance Authority; if her attention has been drawn to the threat from BUPA Ireland to withdraw from the Irish market; her response to this threat; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15332/05]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 144 and 147 together.

My Department received the Health Insurance Authority's report on 29 April. However, as I am sure the Deputies are aware, there is a statutory process to be adhered to, following receipt of the report. Given that the statutory process assigns specific functions to me as Minister, it would be inappropriate for me to make any comment on whether the provision for risk equalisation is to be triggered, or on any related issues at this time.