asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy if he will make a statement on "no fault" motor insurance; and if he has any proposals for new legislation in this regard.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Motor Insurance.
22.
The concept of no-fault motor insurance was examined by the Committee of Inquiry into the Insurance Industry in 1972. The committee did not arrive at a unanimous view for or against no-fault insurance. There would be far-reaching implications for our legal system if this concept were introduced and it would have to be the subject of a full debate extending well beyond the motor insurance sector. I retain an open mind on the question of a no-fault insurance system and will consider the matter further.
To what extent will this item be considered? Has the Minister studied the Pearson Report published in the UK?
I have studied those aspects of it that refer to no-fault insurance.
Is it the intention to further the debate by way of informal discussion or otherwise?
As I say I have an open mind on the subject but the report of the committee of inquiry into the insurance industry made various suggestions. That interim report was submitted to the various Departments for observations and it elicited various comments. It was referred then to the Attorney General. That was in June 1976 and I understand that we shall have his comments on the report very soon. However, I am open to any suggestion from any side of the House or from the public generally on the matter.
I have an open mind on it too, but is the Minister interested in having a debate on the matter?
Yes.
When can we expect the next step which is, I understand, receipt of the report from the Attorney General?
Hopefully, in the near future, but I cannot give a specific date.
Is the report with the Law Reform Commission?
No.