asked the Minister for the Environment whether he is satisfied that under his agreement with the Motor Insurance Bureau, no compensation can ge given in cases of accident where non-insurance did not breach the Road Traffic Acts; in particular (i) pillion passengers on motor bikes, (ii) passengers in commercial vehicles, can be involved in serious accidents with little chance of compensation; and whether he plans to amend the agreement or the Act in the near future to alter this position.
Written Answers. - Compensation for Accident Victims.
473.
The agreement referred to by the Deputy provides for the compensation of uninsured victims of road accidents, whose insurance is compulsory under the Road Traffic Acts. The insurance of passengers on motor cycles and on commercial vehicles is not compulsory at present and accordingly the Motor Insurer's Bureau is not generally required to pay compensation to such uninsured passengers.
The complex question of requiring the insurance of passengers on motor cycles and commercial vehicles is under review in my Department. Other Departments concerned and the insurance industry will be consulted in due course.