Terry Brennan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Along with my colleagues I want to acknowledge the significant contribution Senator Martin McAleese has made to the peace process in Northern Ireland. His was one of the most significant contributions which was made quietly in his own way and from the heart. I congratulate him on the report on the Magdalen laundries which all of us will have the opportunity to read in the near future.

I refer to the recent decision by the Minister, Deputy Varadkar, to allow insurance companies have access to the national vehicle file where details of drivers who have incurred penalties can be obtained. It is the first time that has happened and it will give insurance companies access to details of individual drivers applying for renewal policies or looking to change insurance companies.

I am concerned for the impeccable driver, who may have a track record for the past 30 or 40 years of no accidents and a 60% no claims bonus, who suddenly obtains two penalty points for exceeding the speed limit by 5 km in a 50 km/h zone and the implications for renewing his or her policy. I ask the Leader to arrange for an urgent debate on the issue in the near future.