Aindrias Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the motion and thank Deputy Michael McGrath, who has been dogged in pursuing escalating insurance costs, whether business or motor insurance, which is an ongoing issue we have been raising. I also acknowledge those in the Visitors Gallery, who are busy people who have taken time out from their own work to be here for the debate tonight. I am sure that after several hours here they are eager to be back in their own businesses, making things happen.

I firmly agree with the motion that rising costs for employers through public liability insurance is a threat to the competitiveness of small businesses. I want to focus on the fact it is also a threat to the communities which these businesses serve. Right around the country we see that small businesses, very often family-owned businesses, are supplying up to 40% of the jobs. We know the National Competitiveness Council has stated the cost of doing business is a major concern for overall competitiveness. Many SMEs have experienced very large increases in business insurance and, in addition, insurance companies are using insurance excess and exclusions to protect themselves at the expense of the businesses. Constant pressure from overheads, including the rising cost of business insurance, is squeezing traders and eroding their income, and it is an influencing factor in regard to them reducing their services or even stopping. The pub may close the dance floor, the pool room or the meeting room, the café may not have a hangout area for teens, and public liability insurance may be too expensive for community groups who would have to stop holding a festival or a local parade. In the interests of these various community groups and businesses, action needs to be taken.

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