Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 5 May 2021
206. Deputy Seán Canney asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider amending the existing terms and conditions in relation to life and health insurance in circumstances in cases in which a relationship breakdown has occurred and the policy holder that is the husband refuses to allow the insured former wife to draw a legitimate claim in her favour due to a serious diagnosis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22585/21]
View answerIt is important to note that as Minister for Finance, I do not have responsibility for issues in relation to health insurance, and therefore my answer will relate primarily to life insurance. In general, whether an individual can make a claim in relation to life insurance cover will depend on the specifics of the policy, including in the scenario referenced in the question. The Deputy will also appreciate that I cannot adjudicate on the validity of any claims, or on the particulars of what an insurer covers, as these are contractually based. In addition, neither I, nor the Central Bank of Ireland, can intervene in the provision or pricing of insurance products, as this is a commercial matter which individual companies assess on a case-by-case basis. This position is reinforced by the EU framework for insurance (the Solvency II Directive).
In situations where a person is not satisfied with the service of an insurance provider, it is advisable that that person make a complaint through the firm's internal complaint resolution process. The Consumer Protection Code requires that if after 40 days the complaint has not been resolved to the customer’s satisfaction, the regulated entity must inform the consumer that they may refer their complaint to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO). The FSPO is a statutory official who acts as an independent arbiter of disputes which consumers may have with their insurance company or other financial service provider. The FSPO can be contacted either by email at info@fspo.ie or by telephone at 01-567-7000.
Finally, I would note that Insurance Ireland, the representative body for insurance providers in this country, operates an Insurance Information Service for those who have queries, complaints or difficulties in relation to obtaining insurance, including life insurance. This can be accessed at: feedback@insuranceireland.eu.
