Fiona O'Loughlin (Kildare South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State for agreeing to answer Question No. 13. There is no doubt that the cost of employer and public liability insurance is a direct threat to businesses throughout the country and many aspects of the leisure industry. Triathlon Ireland stated during the summer that insurance premiums for races are jeopardising the future of sport in Ireland. Athy and Naas Triathlon Clubs are booming due to an increase in members.

I am aware of a crèche owner in Portarlington who was recently quoted a figure of €250,000 for insurance. There is no public swimming pool in Newbridge and the nearest swimming pool was run by a private company, Spin Activity Centre, which had to close at the end of August because it was quoted €100,000 for insurance, a fourfold increase on the previous year. The closure resulted in 20 people losing their jobs. Deputy McGrath has put forward very good suggestions and Bills and I suggest the Government examine them in order to try to bring down the cost of insurance for businesses and community and leisure facilities.

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