Vol. 521 No. 1
68 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if any progress can be made to address the issue of the cost of motor insurance for young drivers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16365/00]
The high cost of motor insurance for young drivers is directly attributable to adverse claims experience of such drivers as a risk category. EU law prevents me from intervening directly with the insurance companies in the matter of premium levels or in respect of the risks they are prepared to underwrite.
It is abundantly clear that the primary focus of initiatives, aimed at reducing the cost of motor insurance for young drivers, must be on reducing the frequency of accidents. There are a number of such initiatives in place. For example, the Irish Insurance Federation, in conjunction with the driving instructors register, has introduced a scheme of insurance premium discounts, for the young driver on completion of a required number of driving lessons. The National Safety Council, in co-operation with the Garda, continues to promote anti-speeding and anti-drink driving media campaigns.
My re-establishment of the Motor Insurance Advisory Board is aimed at providing us with information and advice on trends in motor insurance costs and with policy recommendations for addressing those costs.
