Robert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail)
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310. To ask the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the reason car rental companies seek a doctor's note when leasing a car to a person over 75 years of age (details supplied); her views on whether this practice is age discrimination on the part of the companies involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7377/18]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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Policy responsibility for equality issues and the Equal Status Act 2000 are within the remit of my colleague the Minister for Justice and Equality.

The Equal Status Acts make it unlawful to discriminate when providing goods and services. All services that are generally available to the public, whether provided by the State or the private sector are covered, including:

- Access to and the use of any place,

- Transport or travel

- Banking, insurance, grants, loans, credit or financing

- Entertainment, recreation or refreshment

- Cultural activities

- Services or facilities provided by clubs and

- Professional or trade services

The Adjudication Service of the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) is the independent body set up by law to investigate or mediate complaints of discrimination. The decision of whether, any practice, behaviour or treatment is contrary to the Equal Status Acts is a matter that is charged to an Adjudication Officer of the Workplace Relations Commission in accordance with the relevant provisions of that statute.

Therefore, it would be inappropriate for me, as Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, to comment any further in relation to any actual or potential claims.

Finally, there may be insurance implications related to such activities: policy responsibility for motor insurance, as well as driving licences, come within the remit of my colleague the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport.