Harney calls on Bupa to surrender files to Axa

HEALTH Minister Mary Harney called on departing private health insurer Bupa to hand over its customer files to allow Axa take over its business within weeks.

Ms Harney had what were described as “very productive” talks with Axa yesterday after the international insurance company declared its willingness to enter the health insurance market as a replacement for Bupa.

However, British-based Bupa last night rejected the minister’s entreaties, saying the company would not enter discussions with Axa as it wanted to hold on to the option of resuming business in Ireland if barriers to competition were lifted.