Deputy Lisa Chambers

Communities feel the cost as insurance bills cripple businesses

MANY businesses throughout Mayo are struggling to keep up with rising insurance costs, and it's local communities who feel the cost.

So said Fianna Fáil TD for Mayo, Lisa Chambers, who added that the cost of insurance for busineses is rising at a rate that is 'far in excess of what is fair or justified'.

Deputy Chambers stated: “These rising costs are a huge burden on customers, business, charities and sports clubs. In my own constituency in Mayo I am aware of numerous clubs, charities and local enterprises which have struggled to meet insurance premiums.

“It is very important that the recommendations of the working group formed to tackle rising insurance costs are implemented immediately. So far it appears little has been done in this regard.

“The establishment of a national claims database is just one step we can take. The legislation for this database was enacted some time ago yet it languishes in the department. In addition to the database, the establishment of a dedicated garda insurance fraud unit is one action which is often brought up by businesses and communities as an essential measure.

“The department must do more to prevent rising insurance costs. There are options on the table but little has been done to date while premiums rise. The minister ought to take this matter seriously and step up efforts for communities across Co. Mayo,” concluded Deputy Chambers.