Dominic Hannigan (Labour)

We are broadly supportive of the Bill and will not oppose it. However, while the Minister is present, I would like to raise specific issues with regard to the VHI, risk equalisation and health insurance. The proposals in the Bill will give additional flexibility to the VHI, which we must welcome. At this time, the VHI provides insurance for more than 80% of the Irish market. I am concerned, however, that in the past five or six years, we have seen increases in costs of more than 50%. As Senator Twomey noted, we do not see transparent itemisation of these costs. I am particularly concerned to hear a Government Senator — one of the Minister's party colleagues — say she believes there is sharp practice in the charging process. I am interested in hearing whether the Minister concurs with her party colleague's view that sharp practices occur and, if so, whether she intends to take action to address the issue.

I am concerned that the 50% increase in VHI premia over the past five or six years is a precursor to privatisation. The Labour Party will exercise vigilance on this matter.

The Labour Party broadly supports the proposals on risk equalisation contained in this Bill and elsewhere. It is important that the issue of adverse selection is addressed and we must ensure that insurance companies cannot cherry-pick members. A facility must be established to ensure risk equalisation payments are made.

As the Minister will be aware, under universal eligibility regulations every patient may use the public hospital system regardless of whether he or she has private insurance. The Labour Party wants this position to continue to obtain. I ask the Minister for a clear and concise statement on the issue. Does she intend to remove the universal eligibility regulations?