Call for smokers to pay more for health insurance

The health insurance system should be changed to force people who smoke to pay more for coverage instead of targeting older people, a cancer expert has claimed.

Independent senator Prof John Crown issued the call for action at the latest Oireachtas health committee, arguing the move would have a greater impact on public health as it will encourage people to stub out the habit.

Speaking during the cross-party committee’s final meeting with now departed health minister James Reilly last Thursday, the consultant oncologist said he welcomed attempts by Mr Reilly to address the health insurance difficulties.