Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)
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998. To ask the Minister for Health his views on whether it is in the public interest for a company (details supplied) to restrict access to the clinics services to its own subscribers in view of the recent approval by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission for the company to take full ownership of the clinics and of the State's share in the company. [26831/17]

Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Vhi recently received clearance from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission in relation to its proposal to acquire the 50% interest in the Vhi Swiftcare Clinics that it does not already own. This advance clearance was required by competition legislation and it now allows Vhi to proceed with the transaction, which is expected to be finalised shortly.

As Minister for Health I have no role in the day-to-day operation of any of the private health insurance companies. Health insurers operate in a competitive market and are free to include certain terms and conditions in their policies, providing they are in compliance with the health insurance legislation.