I propose to take Questions Nos. 282 to 284, inclusive, together.
I am unclear as to what the Deputy means by the privatisation of health care services. The health strategy, Quality and Fairness — A Health System for You, indicated that the Government was committed to exploring fully the scope for the private sector to provide additional capacity, and that additional capacity would be provided by a combination of public and private providers. A policy direction has recently issued to the Health Service Executive which is aimed at freeing up additional beds for public patients in public hospitals through the development of private hospital facilities on public hospital sites.
I have no direct function with regard to the operation of hospitals and health services provided by the private sector or their cost structures.