Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

A number of weeks ago, I asked the Taoiseach about Motorsport Ireland and its inability to get insurance. This national organisation contacted the Taoiseach. It gave a briefing in the audiovisual room in Leinster House. I thank the Deputies and Senators who turned up to the briefing. This situation has become completely out of hand since Brexit and Covid. No club can get insurance for events, and there are many major events which are worth a fortune to the communities in question. I have a review here relating to the Faugheen 50 Supporters Club and the value these events have to communities. There are spin-off benefits. The people involved love their sport but they cannot even get a quote from insurance companies. I am asking the Taoiseach and the Department to step in to ensure they can get insurance. They have already lost three months of the season. Clubs in Northern Ireland can get insurance. It is a shame to say that, due to Brexit, clubs cannot get it here. It is a cop-out. These people invest significantly in their bikes and other machines, touring and all that goes with them. The events are a massive boost for each area where races are held. The clubs involved also do a lot of community work, such as fundraising. I ask the Taoiseach to step in and assist them, please. The Government should not stand idly by and let them be put out of business.

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