Michael McGrath (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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While neither I, nor the Central Bank of Ireland, can interfere in the provision or pricing of insurance products, I can assure the Deputy that this Government is committed to improving the cost and availability of insurance for all consumers, businesses and community groups across the State.

The whole-of-Government approach being taken through the Action Plan for Insurance Reformsets out 66 actions, which aim to improve both the cost and availability of this key financial service. The latest Action Plan Implementation Report shows that of the vast bulk of these actions are either initiated or ongoing.

Separate to this, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage recently released a report on fire safety in thatched structures. This found a relatively high incidence of fire in thatched buildings in Ireland and highlighted research indicating that the great majority of such fires stem from a small number of causes, particularly solid fuel stoves. It outlined a number of relatively straightforward measures which should help substantially reduce the risk of fire in these buildings. If the incidence of fire can be reduced, it is reasonable to expect that the improved risk profile will feed through to lower premiums and make this market segment more attractive for providers. My officials have disseminated this information directly to the relevant stakeholders in the insurance industry, in order to help develop a more balanced view of providing cover for thatched buildings. In addition, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage is currently developing public guidance based on the report findings, which will assist owners of thatched properties to reduce the identified risk posed by fire. Furthermore, it also operates a number of schemes which are designed to help with conservation works to thatched buildings and other historic structures for the broader benefit of local communities and the wider public. Enquiries in relation to these grants should be directed to that Department.

In conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to assure the Deputy that securing a more sustainable and competitive market through deepening and widening the supply of insurance in Ireland, including for thatched properties, remains a key policy priority for this Government.