Bernard J. Durkan
Question:174 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health the plans, if any, he has to deregulate health insurance; if so, when; the effect such proposals will have on the VHI; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Health Insurance.
Jimmy Deenihan
Question:179 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health when he intends to introduce legislation to amend or replace the Health Act, 1957 to provide for competition in the health insurance sector which will come into effect on 1 July 1994; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 174 and 179 together.
Under the provisions of the EC Third Directive on Non-Life Insurance, insurers from other EC member states will be at liberty to enter the Irish health insurance market from 1 July, 1994 and will no longer require a licence to do so from my Department. I will be introducing legislation shortly which will provide for, among other matters, the continuance of community rating, open entry and lifetime cover by insurers in the Irish market.
The VHI review group will report to me in the near future on the capacity of the VHI to respond effectively to the Single Market. Following consideration of their report I will introduce legislation later this year to amend the VHI Act, 1957.