The Independent Hospitals Association of Ireland says it is seriously concerned over proposals contained in the Health Amendment Bill to charge patients- with private health insurance - for use of public beds in public hospitals.

Yesterday, the Irish Health Insurance Council warned that premiums are set to rise by over 30 per-cent by the end of this year on foot of the government plans.

The IHAI says this proposed bill is another measure that will drive the cost of health insurance up further and impact access to services for all patients- as the public hospital system faces further pressure.

Catherine Whelan, Chief Executive of the IHAI says any move to increase premiums will impact patients