Colm Brophy (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)

I will convey, as I know she will directly convey, the Senator's views and what she has said to the Minister. I listened closely to the points she raised. I am aware of the view expressed by some stakeholders that the proposed increase will have the effect of increasing premiums. I fully take on board the issues and considerations the Senator has raised. They are very important. However, the Minister believes that, given the complex nature of the assessment of insurance premiums, it is too early to say if increases in awards for personal injuries will have the effect of directly increasing premiums. Members of the House will have the opportunity to discuss these matters in fuller detail when resolutions are presented to the Oireachtas.

I thank the Senator again for raising this really important issue.