Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 27 Feb 2003

Vol. 562 No. 3

Written Answers - Insurance Claims.

Richard Bruton

Question:

198 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport if the Government has considered the possibility of reintroducing malicious injury damage to cover instances such as where an uninsured driver inflicts property damage on the householder; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6076/03]

Minister of State at the Department of Transport (Dr. McDaid): Ministerial responsibility for matters relating to malicious injuries legislation is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.

Third party insurance cover against the negligent use of a mechanically propelled vehicle on a public road is compulsory under the Road Traffic Acts 1961 and 1968. Compensation may be paid by the Motor Insurer's Bureau of Ireland to innocent victims of motor accidents in respect of personal injury and-or property damage, where this is caused by the negligent use of a mechanically propelled vehicle by an uninsured driver.