John O'Mahony (Mayo, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank both witnesses. We have had a number of hearings and meetings on this issue. All public representatives have spoken to consumers who are affected by it on many occasions. I spoke to a number of them this morning. They are left out at the moment. That is the problem. Mr. Jewell has suggested that a fund could be established to compensate consumers. Would that be done by the Government, the insurance federation or the industry? Could Mr. Jewell outline what he has in mind in a little more detail? He also suggested that a consumer could bring a case to the small claims procedure. Who would the consumer be claiming against?

I understand there are two types of insurance. Every motorist is insured. Mr. Thompson made it clear this kind of damage is not covered by third party insurance but is covered by comprehensive insurance. Does the claimant in one of these cases always lose his or her no-claims bonus? Perhaps it depends on the particular policy. Is there an excess payment? Does it depend on the small print of the policy? I understand that fuel stations have public liability insurance. I understand from what I have heard anecdotally that payments have been made on the basis of some of the service stations' public liability insurance. Could Mr. Thompson clarify whether that has happened? Is there some possibility of redress there? It was alleged at an early stage that insurers had removed coverage for fuel contamination from certain policies, including the policies of some people with comprehensive insurance. Is that a fact? If it happened, were the premiums reduced to reflect the decrease in cover? I apologise for hitting Mr. Thompson with so many questions. I am trying to be precise. I know members have many questions as well.