Investment group Quinn Group, which has reached agreement with Bupa to take over its business in Ireland, has said it has "no issue" with community rating in the insurance market.

Minister for Health Mary Harney has reiterated that she intends to close a possible legal loophole that could allow Quinn Direct and Vivas to avoid making risk equalisation payments.

Health insurer BUPA has said it is not in talks with Axa regarding the takeover of its operation in Ireland.

The Axa insurance firm is reportedly in talks with the Government about the possibility of taking over BUPA's Irish operations.

The Government is planning to set up a group to review whether health insurance companies can make a profit in the Irish market as it stands.

Minister for Enterprise Micheal Martin has said the ultimate decision on BUPA's future in Ireland rests with the company.

BUPA workers in Fermoy are due to mount a demonstration today outside a meeting between Minister for Enterprise Micheál Martin and local community representatives.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern angrily lashed out today at health insurer Bupa’s decision to pull out of Ireland following the long-running row over risk equalisation payments.

The Amicus trade union has said it will strongly oppose any plans to break up the VHI in the wake of yesterday's decision by BUPA to exit the Irish market.

The Government is reportedly set to consider the break-up of the VHI following BUPA's decision to exit the Irish health insurance market.