Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 9 Nov 1993

Vol. 435 No. 6

Ceisteanna — Questions Written Answers. - Policy on Private Hospitals.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

97 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health if, in view of the contribution of the private and independent hospitals, including those run by religious orders, to the national hospital service at no cost to the State and the financial sacrifice they have made in assisting the financial recovery of the VHI over the past four years, he will give details of his policy in regard to private hospitals; and if he will meet representatives and incorporate their position in his national health strategy.

Minister for Health (Mr. Howlin)

The Deputy will be aware that, as Minister for Health, I do not have a statutory responsibility for the private hospital sector. however, the Voluntary Health Insurance Board, which is under my aegis as Minister is, of course, a major funder of private hospitals through the insurance cover it provides for its members for treatment in those facilities. Discussions between the board and private hospitals on budgetary and other matters are entirely a matter for those parties.

Legislation is being prepared by my Department to comply with the provision of the third EC Directive on Non-Life Insurance. Under the directive companies from other EC countries will be free to market their products in this country from July 1994. Consultations will be held with representatives of the private hospitals on the implications of the directive. In relation to the national health strategy I would welcome any submission which the private hospitals might wish to make to my Department.