John McGuinness (Carlow-Kilkenny, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I feel I am representing those looking for insurance, the standard citizen, the people we represent and companies. I am of the opinion that it is a cartel-like operation. According to the Central Bank, the insurance industry has made significant profits and is desperately reluctant to come forward and co-operate with the Minister and the Government to try to achieve a more balanced marketplace. Until it is taken on, just as its members take on the Minister, the Government and all of us, they will continue to do what they are doing. I agree with the Minister of State about the cost of claims but I think insurance companies and Insurance Ireland have an awful lot to answer for. They are getting away very lightly.