No savings will accrue to my Department following the increase in private and semi-private accommodation charges which came into effect on 1 January last. However, it is estimated that the increase in charges will provide additional income to public hospitals of about £7 million in 2000 and will ensure a higher approved budget than would be the case if the charges had not been increased. This additional income will therefore contribute, along with a record funding provision made available by my Department, to the substantial improvements in the health services being put in place this year.