Malcolm Byrne (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I raise international students' health insurance. It was one of the first issues that I raised following my election to the Seanad. On 5 March 2021, I introduced a Bill specifically to deal with the issue. At the time, I was assured that the issue was being addressed. There is a problem at the Department of Justice where, as part of the visa requirements for non-EEA students who are here for more than one year, they must purchase a particular form of health insurance. The cost of that health insurance has increased significantly. I believe my Bill would have been one way to address it but I was convinced that work was being done by others to address it. I have discovered that as with any issue that falls between a number of Departments, trying to get a final answer becomes impossible. In this case, it falls between the Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science and the Department of Health. The blockage now seems to be coming from the Department of Justice.

I tabled a Commencement matter on 9 December, which was replied to by the Minister of State, Deputy Feighan, who said, "Perhaps in two months, or certainly at some time next year, this issue will be resolved." When the Health Insurance (Amendment) Bill came before this House, the Minister of State, Deputy Butler, indicated that there would be positive news early next year on this issue. I have had constant contact with the Departments of Health and Justice without getting a resolution. I ask that the Deputy Leader write to the Minister for Justice on behalf of the House to request clarity on this issue. It is causing much concern for international students and for higher education institutions because they cannot provide the necessary answers.