Jim O'Keeffe (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 187: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has had discussions with the Dutch authorities arising from the operation of the Dutch health insurance Act which came into operation on 1 January 2006 and which has implications for the many Dutch citizens residing here and, in particular, for those in receipt of pension payments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12912/06]

Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)
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Regulation (EC) 1408/71 provides for the co-ordination of social security systems, including health care, among EU member states. Under the regulation, those who are insured with or covered by the health care system of one member state but who are residing or staying in another member state receive health care in the state of residence or stay on behalf of the member state with which they are insured or covered. Thus, persons who are insured with or covered by the Dutch health insurance system and who reside in Ireland receive health care in Ireland on behalf of the Netherlands. Such persons automatically receive a medical card, regardless of age or means.

A new health insurance system has now come into force in the Netherlands and the Dutch authorities have advised through the EU forum dealing with administrative matters arising from the operation of Regulation (EC) 1408/71 that the changes introduced may affect Dutch persons resident in member states other than the Netherlands, including Ireland. The changes are entirely a matter for the Netherlands. There has been no change to the EU legislation governing the co-ordination of social security systems, including health care, among member states.