Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 27 February 2024
136. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Finance if vehicles registered and insured in other countries have full insurance cover in this jurisdiction; the countries, if any, with which Ireland has mutual recognition of motor vehicle insurance cover; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8786/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Transport has responsibility for the legislative requirement regarding compulsory motor third party insurance in Ireland. It is also important to note that neither I as Minister for Finance, nor the Central Bank of Ireland, can intervene in the provision or pricing of insurance products. This position is reinforced by the EU framework for insurance (the Solvency II Directive).
The green card system is overseen in Ireland by the Motor Insurers Bureau of Ireland, (MIBI), ensures persons who sustain damage and/or injuries in a road traffic accident caused by a vehicle registered outside the State are not disadvantaged.
A green card is a document which acts as proof of motor insurance when travelling internationally. The system predates the European Union, and covers 47 countries, including all EU Member States as well as countries from the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, as well as several countries in the Middle East and some North African countries.
EU motorists travelling to EU countries do not require a Green Card as they are covered by the EU Motor Insurance Directive. There is also no requirement to carry a Green Card in the following non EU countries: Andorra, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Serbia and Switzerland. In 2021, an agreement was reached under the EU Motor Insurance Directive, resulting in the elimination of Green Card requirements for UK registered vehicles.
The green card system is a fundamental component of international insurance regulation. It ensures compliance with minimum compulsory insurance requirements and safeguards the interest of victims in cross-border accidents. It exemplifies international cooperation in enhancing cooperation in road safety and facilitating smooth cross border travel which is pivotal in promoting a policy framework aimed at promoting harmonised insurance standards and protecting all road users.
Finally, from a consumer perspective, Insurance Ireland recommends re-registering your car and insuring it within the country you are living if residing in a country on a long-term basis.
