Michael D'Arcy (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It would be very helpful if we could get this Bill through the House before the end of the session. It contains an important suite of provisions that we need to implement. This is the really important stuff. The Senator highlighted that some of the recommendations are not being followed or have been delayed. While that is correct, this is important legislation. The Personal Injuries Assessment Board (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill 2018 is also important. Overall, however, the Judicial Council Bill 2017 is probably more important than just about anything else. The sooner we get this key legislation through both Houses, the sooner we will impact further on the reduction of premia. I am fully aware that businesses are closing because the cost of insurance is very high. I am also aware that voluntary groups throughout the country, from the Senator's part of County Mayo in the west to County Wexford in the south-east where I come from, are stretched. Everything that we do is intended to bring down premia.

While debate can sometimes be combative, I express my gratitude to the Joint Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform, and Taoiseach and to Deputies and Senators for the speed with which the Insurance (Amendment) Act 2018 was passed. The Bill before the House went through the Dáil pretty quickly, and I hope and anticipate we will get it through this House. As I said, this Bill, the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (Amendment) Bill 2018, the Insurance (Amendment) Act 2018, the Judicial Council Bill 2017 and one or two other bits and pieces will have an impact and reduce insurance premia even further.