Mary O'Rourke
Question:75 Mrs. O'Rourke asked the Minister for Health if he will request the Voluntary Health Insurance Board to inform him if any member of the Oireachtas was retained by them on a paid basis as a consultant or lobbyist. [11438/97]
Written Answers. - Voluntary Health Insurance Board.
Limerick East): I have been informed by the voluntary Health Insurance Board that on 10 December 1996, it engaged the services of Deputy Jim Mitchell, in an advisory capacity. The purpose of the engagement was to advise on how best to mobilise support for the retention of community rating in respect of private health insurance. This arrangement ceased on 31 December 1996.
On 3 January 1997, Deputy Mitchell informed VHI by letter that, as the retention of community rating was of major concern to and directly affected many of his constituents, he would not be making any request for payment. He suggested that instead a contribution might be given to the Irish Youth Foundation. On 9 January 1997, a cheque was issued by the VHI to this organisation.