Deirdre Clune
Ceist:42 Ms Clune asked the Minister for Health and Children the discussions he has had with possible new entrants to the medical insurance market who may wish to compete with companies (details supplied). [28773/00]
Written Answers. - Private Health Insurance.
There is no obligation on companies who may be considering entering the medical insurance market to make contact with my Department in advance of seeking entry in the register of health benefits undertakings maintained under the Health Insurance Act, 1994.
Discussions have taken place with interested parties about entering the medical insurance market. It is entirely a matter for the interests concerned to determine, on commercial and strategic grounds, whether to provide services in the market here. The announcement of any interest or decision in that regard would be a business matter for the party concerned.
I wish to emphasise that I am anxious to facilitate increased competition and consumer choice in the area of private health insurance.