142. Deputy Ciara Conway asked the Minister for Health the procedure for debt collection of bills issued by University Hospital Waterford; the length of time before bills are passed to an outside collection agency; the firms and agencies used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40807/15]

143. Deputy Ciara Conway asked the Minister for Health the number of debts or cases that are being passed on to outside debt collection agencies by University Hospital Waterford, in each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [40808/15]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 142 and 143 together.

With regard to the specific queries raised by the Deputy, as these are service matters, I have asked the HSE to respond to you directly. If you have not received a reply from the HSE within 15 working days please contact my Private Office and my officials will follow the matter up.