132 Dr. Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on whether it would financially be more viable to purchase PAP machines outright instead of the current system whereby these machines are leased and reimbursed under the drug payment scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31755/03]

Arrangements for the provision of aids and appliances, such as PAP machines, to persons covered by the drugs payment scheme are a matter for the individual health board.