asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware of the statement by the Institute of Insurance Brokers of Ireland to the effect that many people in Ireland are driving without insurance due to the inability to obtain insurance; and if, in view of the serious nature of this allegation, he will order an immediate inquiry into the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Insurance Brokers Statement.
41.
I am aware of the statement made by the Institute of Insurance Brokers.
The insurance industry committee is examining the whole question of motor insurance and I do not consider that any special inquiry is necessary in connection with the statement by the institute.
As I have mentioned previously, the Minister for Local Government has special machinery available for helping to secure cover for persons who have been refused cover or who have been quoted a premium so high as to be tantamount to refusal. Any cases of difficulty should, therefore, be referred to him.
In the light of the statement made by the Institute of Insurance Brokers, would the Minister not consider it a matter of urgency to look into this problem and not just say that a commission is inquiring into it and he is awaiting their report? I do not think they would make these charges without being able to substantiate them.
Statements attributed to people by the Deputy are not always correct. He does not always quote them correctly.
The Minister admitted in his reply that he had seen the statement.
I said I was aware of the statement. I am not saying that the statement they made corresponds with what the Deputy said.
Does the Minister not think that the inference warrants an immediate investigation?
They recommended that I should take certain steps in relation to insurance coverage. There is no great point in my setting up some sort of a separate inquiry body in view of the fact that I am expecting a report within the next month from the body which has been sitting for over two years preparing a report.
The Minister should tell them to stop sitting and get up and do something.
They have been extremely active.
Question No. 42.
The people who made the statement are a responsible body.
The committee are a responsible body as well, including representatives of this group.