Pádraig Rice (Cork South-Central, Social Democrats)
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566. To ask the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the lack of availability of insurance for mobility scooters; the steps his Department will take to address this issue for individuals with decreased mobility who seek to insurance their mobility scooters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46637/25]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy will be aware, neither I as Minister for Finance nor the Central Bank of Ireland can intervene in the provision or pricing of insurance products, as this is a commercial matter which individual companies assess on a case-by-case basis. This position is reinforced by the EU Single Market framework for insurance, as set out in the Solvency II Directive.

With regard to the specific matter raised, aids and appliances for people with disabilities come under the remit of the Minister for Health. I understand that the Health Service Executive (HSE) provide a wide range of medical and surgical aids and appliances free of charge under the Community Funded Schemes to eligible patients, following assessment by a relevant health professional. Mobility scooters are among the many products provided. In general, HSE-funded aids and appliances are replaced where theft, loss, or third-party liability occurs. Those aids and appliances which fall outside of the HSE scheme may be covered by private health insurance or are self-funded.

My officials have engaged with Insurance Ireland and Brokers Ireland to bring this matter to their attention. It may interest the Deputy to know that Insurance Ireland operate a free information service for customers who have queries, complaints or difficulties in relation to obtaining insurance cover, which can be contacted at 01 676 1914 or at feedback@insuranceireland.eu. Similarly, Brokers Ireland, the representative body for insurance brokers in Ireland, has access to a wide range of providers and products, and can offer advice for customers when sourcing cover. Brokers Ireland can be reached at 01 661 3067.

In conclusion, Government remains firmly committed to achieving a competitive and sustainable insurance market in which this key financial service is both affordable and available to all consumers.