Brendan Griffin (Kerry South, Fine Gael)
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Question 49: To ask the Minister for Finance if a company (details supplied) in County Kerry can be assisted in obtaining insurance cover; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36530/11]

Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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The Irish Insurance Federation has informed my Department that the Declined Cases Agreement (DCA) which was drawn up in 1981 is adhered to by all motor insurers in Ireland. Under the agreement, the insurance market will not refuse to provide insurance to an individual seeking motor insurance, if he/she has approached at least three motor insurers and has not been able to obtain cover. In general, the motor insurer first approached will be required to provide the individual with a quote. If it is impossible to identify which insurer was the first approached for a quote, then a rota of insurers comes into effect. The only grounds on which a motor insurer can refuse cover is in circumstances where the provision of motor insurance would be contrary to the public interest. The agreement is administered by a committee made up of representatives of each of the companies who have signed the agreement. The Committee can decide whether a quote is so high, or the terms so excessive, as to make the quote tantamount to a refusal, in which case it will review the matter.