Kieran O'Donnell (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

They also both relate to Limerick.

The first is the issue of motor insurance. The cost of motor insurance has continued to increase. Earlier, I heard a colleague looking for a debate. It is urgently needed. There are elderly people for whom the cost motor insurance is climbing and many people cannot get insurance. I ask that the Minister responsible come before the House immediately to debate on it. The question of motor insurance companies operating cartels is being examined but as far as I am concerned they are and we need to take them on at full blast.

The second issue relates to Irish Rail. For a four-week period, between 4 June and 25 June, Irish Rail is effectively closing down Limerick station while new signal boxes are going in. I have two questions. This appears to have come out of the blue. The company is now talking about rescheduling train times and it is more than likely that people will be transported to Limerick Junction. I have put in a call to Mr. Barry Kenny of Irish Rail on the matter and we need clarity on this issue. Although a new facade and a fantastic new promenade have just been put in place at Limerick railway station, it will be out of commission for four weeks. We need answers as to why this has arisen now. What rescheduling is being put in place? Will the buses be disabled-friendly? Why is this work not being done at night when trains are not running? This is something about which I feel very strongly. I will put this to Irish Rail and to the Minister, Deputy Ross, to find out exactly what is going on with Limerick train station.