Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As I stated in my opening remarks, unfortunately it has not been possible to secure an agreement on these matters yet. However, I am informed by the Department of Health officials that communication is ongoing and that both Departments are working towards a solution. I take the officials at their word. Although this matter is not directly within the Minister for Health's policymaking role to determine immigration requirements and procedures, officials in the Department of Health have been engaging with officials in the Department of Justice to see if this requirement should be necessary for these students.

Again, I thank the Senator for his contribution and for raising this issue. As outlined, there are issues concerning international students coming to study in Ireland. They have particular immigration visa requirements related to having private health insurance. The Departments of Health and Justice need to redouble their efforts to overcome these anomalies or obstacles. Unfortunately, it has not been possible so far to secure an agreement.I am not privy to what is going on. I am quite sure that work has been going on between Departments. I hope we can get an agreement on this as soon as possible. I will bring the concerns of the Senator directly to the Minister.