I move amendment No. 1:
In page 3, subsection (2), line 27, after "provisions" to insert "provided that the substantial effect of the Act shall not be impaired by the partial implementation of its provisions".
We all recognise that this Bill is necessary in order to comply with EU legislation. The reason I am proposing this amendment is that this section provides for the partial implementation of the provisions of the Bill, as necessary, which I understand is normal procedure. This has become an expedient in recent times which is not useful or helpful. I recall that while certain sections of the Child Care Act were implemented on time others were not implemented until a later date. There is a danger that the delayed implementation of a section or sections can have serious negative effects. That is the reason I am proposing this amendment.
In the situation that is likely to develop in the health insurance market during the next few months I do not think we can delay full implementation of the Bill. It is probably the Minister's intention to monitor the position to see when it is expedient to implement particular sections, but there is a possibility that the delayed implementation of sections may lead to the creation of loopholes which will become obvious to those who wish to exploit them. I am not talking here about any companies in this country. I would like to hear the Minister's views on this matter.