Michael McDowell
Question:21 Mr. M. McDowell asked the Minister for Health when the new VHI Bill will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1678/95]
Written Answers. - Voluntary Health Insurance Board.
Máire Geoghegan-Quinn
Question:27 Mrs. Geoghegan-Quinn asked the Minister for Health his views in relation to improvements in the operation, organisation and internal policy of the VHI. [1601/95]
Limerick East): I propose to take Questions Nos. 21 and 27 together.
Legislation is in preparation to amend the Voluntary Health Insurance Act, 1957, following the passage of the Health Insurance Act, 1994, giving effect to the EU Single Market in health insurance, and having regard to the possible implications of a recent Supreme Court judgment in an action taken by a private hospital against the VHI Board. The proposed legislation will be designed to enhance the board's ability to compete effectively in the Single Market by amending certain of the provisions in the current legislation governing the board and its operations. In preparing the Bill I shall have regard to the recommendations of the VHI Review Group which undertook a comprehensive review of VHI's structure and operations. Taken with the recent appointment of a new chief executive by the board, the VHI should then be equipped to meet the challenges which will undoubtedly be posed by its new operating environment. I hope to introduce the necessary legislation in the coming months.