I do not expect to be answered by the introduction of a red herring. If the Minister wants a lecture on what is PD policy in relation to funding of the health services, I will be happy to take him aside and hopefully convert him to that policy as we have succeeded in doing in a number of other areas. Is the Minister at all concerned about the proposed extension of B and C cover to the Mater Private Hospital? Is it proposed to extend the B and C cover to the Blackrock Clinic also?

Basically, this is a matter of the VHI dealing with the management of the contract insurance board. As regards the details of any extension of B and C cover, that is a matter for consideration. We shall be discussing with the VHI the question of any extension.

A final supplementary.

Surely the VHI will not act independently in a matter of this kind. They are a semi-State board. Surely the approval of the Minister and the Department is sought and required before such a fundamental change could take place in the extent of the cover being offered by the VHI. Would the Minister confirm the extension to the Mater Private Hospital and could he inform the House whether discussions at any level have taken place with the Minister or officials in the Department of Health and VHI board officials with regard to the extension of B and C cover to the Blackrock Clinic also? Are any discussions at all taking place, or does the Minister know?

The Mater Private Hospital has been accepting plans B and C cover for some of its patients. This, combined with the fact that not all the beds in the Blackrock Clinic are VHI approved, means that potential expenditure on plans D and E claims is reduced and the plans can be self-financing at lower membership levels. As far as further expansion of this situation is concerned, it would be a matter for consultation with the Department. I agree with Deputy Molloy that it would be a question of discussing the matter with the Department before any such extension could take place.

My question is——

I have given Deputy Molloy a lot of latitude on the question, I think he will agree.

I take note that the Minister did not answer my last question.

The next meeting will take place on 25 March, I understand.