Vol. 527 No. 5
102 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Health and Children the implications for those with private health insurance of the recent decision of the Competition Authority not to grant a licence to the Irish Hospital Consultants' Association for the fee schedule arrangement with two companies (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28931/00]
The Competition Authority has issued a statement of objections to the Irish Hospitals Consultants Association regarding its wish to obtain a licence, under the Competition Acts, to cover arrangements between insurers and medical consultants in relation to payment of fees for services to insured persons. I understand that the association has sought an oral hearing by the authority before it determines whether to refuse a licence on the grounds set out in its statement. In the circumstances, it would not be appropriate for me to comment on the matter at this stage.
