(Dublin North-West) asked the Minister for Industry, Trade, Commerce and Tourism if he is aware of the very high premiums that are now being charged in cities and provincial towns for householders' insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am aware of the premium rates charged for household insurance which reflect the risks borne by insurers on this class of business. Recent increases in these rates have arisen from the substantial losses on household insurance in recent years which must be provided for. Because of my concern at the effect on the public, I have insisted that these increases be limited or moderated where it is open to me to so do and in a prudent manner.

I should like to pose one or two questions on this important matter that affects every householder. Is the Minister aware that in the past six months increases in this type of insurance have been between 50 per cent and 100 per cent, all granted by the NPC? Is the Minister aware that this is having a detrimental effect on family budgets and that household insurance is now almost as dear as car insurance? Has the Minister any hope to offer to the people concerned?

I am sure the Deputy realises that my function is primarily as a supervisory authority. I must ensure, as the Deputy will appreciate, that insurance companies remain viable. I should like to point out that in recent years there has been a serious underwriting loss in this class of business under the heading of fire and other damage to property. For instance, the underwriting losses deteriorated from £75 million in 1981 to £10.693 million in 1983 and £12.154 million in 1984. Obviously, that represents a serious loss. The main reason for those underwriting losses has been the significant increase in crime and the frequency of claims. I suggest that the increase in the crime rate has been substantially responsible for those underwriting losses.

The Minister cannot pass this off by saying he does not have any responsibility except in so far as the supervision of companies is concerned. Is the Minister aware that a burglary occurs every 20 minutes and that he cannot treat this matter in isolation by telling us it is the responsibility of another Minister? If, as a result of a burglary occurring every 20 minutes, householders have to pay exorbitant insurance premiums, has he any suggestion to put forward to deal with the problem?

Clearly this is a matter for another Minister.

It is very much related.