Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)
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To ask the Minister for Health the way primary, social and community care will be funded in 2016; if he will confirm that it will be through general taxation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [55073/12]

James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
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The Government is embarking on a major reform programme for the health system, the aim of which is to deliver a single-tier health service, supported by universal health insurance (UHI), where access is based on need, not on income. Under UHI, every citizen will be insured and will have equal access to a standard package of primary and acute hospital services, including acute mental health services. A new Insurance Fund will subsidise or pay insurance premia for those who qualify for a subsidy. While primary and hospital care will be funded mainly via the UHI system, specialised and social care services, including long term care, will be funded by general taxation. Although funded separately, these services will still be delivered in an integrated manner around the needs of the person.