Michael McCarthy (Labour)

I have raised this issue several times. A survey conducted by Macra na Feirme, details of which were published in the Irish Examiner this morning, quite clearly illustrates the lack of competition in the insurance sector and in particular demonstrates the discrimination perpetrated by insurance companies against young male drivers. Six profile studies of the seven main insurance companies show that a 20 year old student living in County Kildare and driving a 1997 Fiat car worth €1,300 was quoted a maximum of €4,100 and a minimum of €2,346. First, that demonstrates quite clearly that insurance companies are still discriminating against young people by charging them inordinate sums for insurance. Second, it shows a lack of competition in the area. When one sees differences of up to €2,000, one realises something is inherently wrong.