Vol. 413 No. 6
86 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Justice if he has had any discussions with insurance companies regarding the problems which arise for farmers because trespass is no defence in court even though a person trespassing does not have permission to be on the property.
87 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Justice if he has met representatives of the National Association of Regional Game Councils and the farming groups to discuss the problems of trespass for the game shooting season together with the costs of public liability insurance for farmers because of the effect on the tourism promotion of Irish game shooting.
89 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Justice if he has examined the problems which follow trespass since the latter is no defence in court; and if he will introduce legislation to ban all uninsured people from entering onto land.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 86, 87 and 89 together.
I am very well aware of concerns expressed on behalf of farmers and, indeed, other interests about liability for personal injuries sustained on property by trespassers and other categories of entrant.
Discussions have taken place between my Department and representatives of the Irish Farmers Association and the National Association of Regional Game Councils. Insurance aspects of this issue are not a matter for my Department and they have not had any discussions with insurance companies.
As I indicated in a reply to a question in the House yesterday, I have discussed this matter with the Attorney General and he has informed me that he proposes to request the Law Reform Commission to examine the law relating to occupiers' liability and to prepare a report for him with recommendations.
