Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 November 2021
698. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to the challenges being faced by the hunt and equine sector arising from their difficulty in getting insurance cover; the steps he proposes to take to address this challenge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [54067/21]
View answerInsurance is not a matter for the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine. I have been informed however by Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) of the significant insurance issues arising within the sport horse industry. In 2020, Horse Sport Ireland convened an Insurance Working Group to consider the issues facing the organisation and their wider affiliate family in the context of insurance indemnity and premium cost.
All elements of the sport horse sector are affected, equine business owners, affiliate organisations and equestrian enthusiasts. Horse Sport Ireland have looked to provide a solution for members with the exit of a well-known provider to the leisure/recreation side of the industry. This departure from Ireland was compounded by Brexit, with many insured now without cover. The HSI Initiative is yet to be launched with on-going discussions with a global provider. HSI have advised that this is only one small step however to assist the sector with a great reluctance of underwriters to provide cover due to the rising cost of legal claims.
I am advised that the insurance landscape is volatile across a range of sectors, including the sport horse sector. Horse Sport Ireland have engaged through the Irish Federation of Sport and the Insurance Reform Alliance conveying their affiliate's concerns and raising the costs in respect of insurance.
I will continue to engage with Horse Sport Ireland regarding this live and difficult situation facing stakeholders.
