asked the Minister for Health the basis on which he estimated the cost of the choice of doctor scheme; and if he is satisfied that the original basis was correct.

The estimate of the cost of the scheme was based on a number of assumptions about the probable visiting and prescribing patterns.

It was estimated that, over the country as a whole, the annual number of consultations per eligible person would be about three and a half although it was realised that this could be subject to variation as between different areas. This, and the agreed rates of payment, were the main items governing the amount included for payments to doctors.

For calculating the cost of drugs and medicines, it was estimated that prescribing for eligible persons would be at an average rate of between six and seven items per person per annum and an average ingredient cost was assumed.

Until there has been further experience of the operation of the scheme throughout the country as a whole and until the impact of specific measures to lower visiting and prescribing rates in Dublin has been assessed, I would not wish to comment on the extent to which the original basis for estimating should be varied.