I propose to take Questions Nos. 212 to 214, inclusive, together.
Implementation of Consultant Contract 2008 is a matter for the HSE in the first instance. The Contract sets out clear rules on the permitted ratios of public-private practice and the measures to ensure that these provisions are complied with. Depending on contract type, a consultant may have no access to private practice (Type A contract holders), a cap of 20% private activity for newly appointed consultants (Type B) or a cap of up to 30% in the case of certain existing consultants. Under the Public Service Agreement, following negotiations at the LRC in September 2012, health service employers and the consultant representative bodies agreed a range of measures to support improved patient care, including a renewed commitment to consultant compliance with the limits on private practice activity. I have asked the HSE to revert directly to the Deputy in relation to the specific issues he has raised.