asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism if he is aware of the excessive insurance charges that hackney owners have to meet; and the steps he proposes to take to improve the situation.

I am aware that hackney owners are subject to loading because they are regarded as a greater risk than ordinary policyholders, but I am not aware of any general concern on the part of hackney owners about this.

If the Deputy is aware of any instances of what he considers to be excessive charges, perhaps he could provide me with the details and I will have them investigated by my Department.

A number of taxi owners came to me complaining about the increase in motoring costs, added to which are increased premiums. They are finding the situation very difficult.

A question, please, Deputy.

Is the Minister aware that in some areas where there is the withdrawal of the public bus service, these taxi drivers play a very important role and it would be a great pity if they had to go out of business due to being priced out by high insurance costs?

With all due respect to the Deputy, during the past two years my Department have received only one complaint——

I had two.

——regarding raised charges to hackney owners. I do not see any major problem there.

I received 100 per cent more complaints than the Minister.

If the Deputy knows of a specific case and it is brought to my attention, I shall have it examined.

I shall do that.