The Data Protection Commissioner is to develop a code of conduct for life assurance companies, RTE has learned.
The development follows concerns about information held on the public by the sector. The Commissioner is to include the life assurance companies in an audit of firms to be carried out this year to ensure they do not breach the rights of consumers. Talks have begun on a new code.
When people apply for a mortgage, they must get life assurance. The insurance companies ask consumers for a health check by a doctor or medical records.
If somebody is refused cover on medical grounds their details are put on a central register operated by the Irish Insurance Federation.
When an individual re-applies to another company, it can see if that person was turned down before, and obtain medical records from the first insurance firm.
The IIF says consumers sign a clause which allows companies to exchange information when they apply for cover. It says this protects it from people who are hiding serious ailments.
