asked the Minister for Health if he will state the estimated annual cost of the health service proposed in the Government's recent White Paper when in full operation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Health Service Cost.
It is not possible at this stage to estimate the annual cost of the new health services when fully in operation. Many important aspects of the scheme will not be settled until discussions have been held with local authorities and other interested bodies.
Surely the Minister must have some estimate of the cost of this proposed health scheme and if he will not make that available to the members, will he issue a further White Paper in the near future as to the estimated cost of the scheme, when these further particulars are forthcoming?
I have no reliable estimate.
Has the Minister any estimate?
Yes.
Will he tell the House?
No, because it is not a reliable estimate.
Has the Minister a reliable scheme?
Will the Minister state whether it is proposed that the cost will be borne centrally or locally?
Half-and-half.
Will the Minister have his estimate available for the conference that he has called for the 7th November?
We will be able to discuss the matter.
Will he have his estimate available? There is no use in our going there unless it is.
I cannot, if I have not got one.
Then the Minister has not got one?