Tom Morrissey (Progressive Democrats)

I welcome the Minister of State. The speech made by the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment on behalf of the Government tonight was one of the most important made in this House since I came in here 18 months ago. It is far reaching, affects every system and should be applauded by all sides of this House instead of being condemned and noted by members of the Labour Party who have withdrawn tonight.

Young drivers, all motorists, householders, and business people especially have been dreading the day when their premium renewal notices drop through their letterboxes. As a business person, I know that the insurance premium is the next highest bill after the wages bill. Over the past two or three years when the economic boom took off and insurance premiums increased dramatically, many companies had to close because they could see no way to continue paying wages and insurance costs. That is why I welcome the contribution of the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. I am delighted to hear that this Bill will be brought before this House again within a week and that time will be made in the schedule to ensure it is enacted before Christmas in order that we will see real reforms within the next 12 months.