Joe Behan
Ceist:143 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Transport if he will review a policy matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1822/11]
Amharc ar fhreagraThursday, 13 January 2011
Ceisteanna (143)
Freagraí scríofa
Third-party motor insurance is required by law for the use of all mechanically propelled vehicles in a public place in this country. Motor insurance is provided by private companies in an open and competitive market where consumer interests can exert influence by seeking quotes and comparing costs before purchasing. Insurance companies are regulated by the Financial Regulator.
Motor insurance companies in Ireland insure vehicle drivers rather than vehicles. This enables them to calculate the risks associated with specific drivers and thereby price the insurance premium accordingly. The factors taken into account when calculating the risk include the age, gender and driving experience of the driver, the engine size of the vehicle and its usage, together with the address at which the vehicle is based. This system also enables a specific driver to establish a no-claims status over a number of years. It is always advisable for both mature and young drivers to shop around and take advantage of the competition within the market when seeking new insurance or renewing an existing policy.
Ireland recognises driving licences from a number of other jurisdictions and allows for them to be exchanged for Irish licences. Unfortunately, this does not include licences from the United States, as the multiplicity of licensing criteria in the different American States would make that impracticable. However, last year I introduced the Road Traffic (Licensing of Learner Drivers)(Certificates of Competency)(Amendment) Regulations 2010 (S.I. No. 509 of 2010), which removed from foreign licence holders the requirement to wait six months from receiving a learner's permit before they apply for a certificate of competency.
I have no proposals to amend the policy on these matters and it would not be appropriate for me to become involved in issues relating to specific quotations for individual motor insurance policies.