asked the Minister for Industry, Commerce and Energy when it is proposed to introduce in this country an EEC Draft Directive, already signed by the original six common market members, in respect of motor insurance, which introduces the principle of liability irrespective of fault; and if he agrees that the principle of "no fault" in this area has to be accepted in the interest of consumer protection.
Written Answers. - EEC Motor Insurance Scheme.
345.
It is not clear what EEC measure the Deputy has in mind in the first part of his question. There is no EEC directive in existence which introduces the principle of liability irrespective of fault in respect of motor insurance. Neither is there any indication that the preparation of such a draft directive is being contemplated by the European Commission.
As to the second part of the Deputy's question the principle of liability irrespective of fault in respect of motor insurance has not yet been adopted here. As I already indicated in reply to a question by Deputy O'Keeffe on 27 April 1978, the introduction of the concept of no-fault motor insurance would have far reaching implications for our legal system and it would have to be the subject of consideration extending well beyond the motor insurance sector. As I stated then, I will continue to keep an open mind on the question of a "no-fault" insurance system and the Deputy may be assured that a careful analysis of all the factors involved will be carried out.