Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 26 Mar 2002

Vol. 551 No. 2

Written Answers. - Insurance Costs.

Gerry Reynolds

Question:

97 Mr. G. Reynolds asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the fact that persons of 17 years of age are unable to obtain motor insurance; the measures in place to protect young drivers and ensure that they receive motor insurance; her plans to review these procedures; and if she will make a statement on the matter in view of all the reviews. [9923/02]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Treacy)

I am aware of the difficulties being experienced by young persons in their efforts to obtain motor insurance. The pricing and underwriting of insurance is a matter for individual insurance companies and European Union law prevents me or our Department from intervening in relation to the matter of premium levels or in respect of what risks insurance companies are prepared to underwrite. Insurers make decisions on provision of cover based on their assessment of that particular risk.

In relation to young persons being unable to obtain motor insurance, the declined cases agreement between my Department and the authorised motor insurance companies offers the provision of a quotation subject tointer alia written evidence of five refusals of cover from motor insurers. Under the Equal Status Act, 2000, any individual who considers that he or she has experienced discrimination, within the meaning of the Act, may refer a complaint to the Director of Equality Investigations for investigation or mediation. Among the areas of potential discrimination are age or sex of an individual.

The work of the Motor Insurance Advisory Board has included an examination of the cost of motor insurance for young people. The board has finalised its report and arrangements for its printing and subsequent publication are now being made. I will give urgent consideration to the best way of advancing the MIAB's recommendations when I receive the final report.