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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 21 May 1987

Vol. 372 No. 12

Written Answers. - Insurance Costs for Public Events.

19.

asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if his attention has been drawn to the curtailment of festivals, gymkhanas, showjumping, community activities, and country shows because of public liability insurance costs; if he intends to introduce legislation to alleviate this problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am aware of difficulties which have arisen in some of these areas because of public liability insurance costs.

This is not a problem which is directly amenable to legislation. It is unfortuataely the case that equestrian events and community festivals and shows do give rise to a particular risk of injury to and claims by members of the public. The cost of these claims can only be met by insurance if an adequate premium is forthcoming to cover the risk involved. In 1985, the latest year for which full figures are available, insurers sustained underwriting losses of £36 million on their general liability business.

The problem has to be tackled by promoting greater safety measures and doing everything possible to avoid accidents and hence claims. Speculative claims and unnecessary litigation and legal expenses have to be discouraged.

An arrangement exists with the Irish Insurance Federation to assist in cases where difficulties are experienced in obtaining liability insurance. Organisers of events who are experiencing difficulties should contact the insurance section of my Department who will advise them on how to proceed. While this arrangement is reasonably successful, I must emphasise that no guarantee can be given that cover will be forthcoming in every case.

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