Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Tuesday, 25 September 2012

Joint Oireachtas Committee on Environment, Culture and the Gaeltacht

Difficulties in Obtaining Home Insurance: Discussion with Irish Insurance Federation

3:55 pm

Mr. Michael Kemp:

In terms of improving risk and therefore bringing down costs, it is reflected in a competitive market and the reduction in prices. When Deputy Corcoran Kennedy says the industry will benefit, ultimately the consumer will benefit because the consumer will get cover at a lower price if the cost of claims reduces, as has happened in respect of motor insurance in the past ten years. The point made in respect of corporate social responsibility is that it is an area where it could be considered but it is a matter for individual companies rather than an area in which we have a role. We can examine it and talk to our members about it but it will come down to individual companies deciding whether they want to get involved.