asked the Minister for Trade, Commerce and Tourism if he will have discussions with the insurance companies about their refusal to insure pillion passengers on motorcycles.
72.
Written Answers. - Motorcycle Pillion Passengers' Insurance.
71.
asked the Minister for Trade, Commerce and Tourism if he is aware of the difficulty being experienced by motor cyclists in obtaining insurance cover to cover pillion passengers; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 71 and 72 together.
The insurance of motor cycle pillion passengers is not compulsory under the Road Traffic Acts. Insurance companies are, therefore, not obliged to include this type of cover in motor cycle policies issued by them. I understand that in certain circumstances personal accident cover is available for pillion passengers.