Reilly disappointed by health insurance hikes

Health Minister Dr James Reilly has said that private health insurers should be reducing the cost of their premia, not hiking them.

Health Minister Dr James Reilly has said that private health insurers should be reducing the cost of their premiums, not hiking them.

Minister Reilly today said he is disappointed at the announcement yesterday by Vhi Healthcare of price increases averaging 9%.

The other main health insurance firms have also increased their premiums since the start of the year.

But Minister Reilly today told Radio Kerry that he is hopeful a new "insurance forum" involving the main companies in the Irish market will lead to reductions in time.