Insurance Coverage

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 June 2021

Tuesday, 29 June 2021

Ceisteanna (156)

Alan Kelly

Ceist:

156. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Finance if he has made contact with insurance firms to confirm that they will provide insurance cover to publicans that provide drinks in outdoor locations in compliance with public health regulations but in a manner that the Government has failed to legislate for; the outcome of those contacts; the action he is taking to address the issue to ensure that publicans and other businesses will be able to open up; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34777/21]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Finance

At the outset, it is important to note that the administration of the scheme underpinning the provision of outdoor hospitality facilities operated by many businesses across the country, including by publicans is the responsibility of the relevant local authorities. These are under the remit of Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

Having said that, my Department has been in touch with Insurance Ireland regarding this matter. They have advised us that given the range of facilities offered by licenced premises, the issue will have to be assessed on a case-by-case basis depending on whether this activity takes place within the business premises or in public spaces. As such, a uniform approach is not applicable in these circumstances.