I propose to take Questions Nos. 375 and 399 together.
My colleague the Minister for Finance is responsible for the legal framework governing financial regulation. The provision of insurance cover and the price at which it is offered is a commercial matter for insurance companies and is based on an assessment of the risks they are accepting and adequate provisioning to meet those risks.
In cases where landlords are experiencing difficulties in obtaining insurance, I would advise them to contact Insurance Ireland which operates free insurance information for those who have queries or complaints, or experiencing difficulties in relation to acquiring insurance. That service can be contacted at 01 676 1914 or by email at info@insuranceireland.eu
I will ensure that this matter is kept under review in my Department in so far as it relates to the availability of social housing. As part of the development of the Government’s Action Plan for Housing, I am committed to examining a range of proposals designed to overcome barriers to increasing the supply of private rented accommodation for tenancies provided to households with a long-term social housing need.