asked the Minister for Health the total amount collected under the Health Contributions Act since its inception; and the corresponding amount expended on hospitalisation in the same period.
Written Answers. - Health Contributions.
191.
The scheme of health contributions came into operation on 1st October, 1971. The total amount collected during the first 18 months, i.e., up to 31st March, 1973, was £6,675,036. The amount which it is estimated will be collected in 1973-74 is £5 million.
It is assumed that the Deputy has in mind the revenue cost of hospital services. The estimated current expenditure on health board and voluntary hospital services, including homes for the mentally handicapped and the aged, in the financial years mentioned is as follows: 1971-72, £63 million; 1972-73, £77 million; 1973-74 £90 million.