Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Naughten raised the specific issue of whether changing a health insurance policy during a calendar year could result in double payment of the levy or stamp duty. I am advised that this does not arise under the interim risk equalisation scheme, nor will it arise under the permanent scheme. The charge to stamp duty arises on the renewal of a contract or on entering into a contract or renegotiation of the terms of an existing health insurance contract. For example, a reduction in cover would not be treated as renewal of an existing contract or entering into a new contract but as an amendment to an existing contract. The stamp duty or levy would be paid by reference to the accounting period under which the contract was initially renewed or entered into. The renegotiation of a contract to change cover would not be regarded as a renewal or as entering into a new contract. In the same way, a move from one insurance provider to another will also not result in double payments of the levy. It is not feasible or practical to draft legislation to cater precisely for every possible exceptional administrative scheme arrangement. Rather, it will be sufficient for the Revenue Commissioners, where necessary, to issue guidance notes to address any such issues that arise. They have been clear as to their intentions. I hope that addresses the Deputy's point.

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