Will the Minister agree that some of the companies are showing a profit and will he ensure that those companies do not increase their premiums?

The Deputy can be assured that it is not my wish to prevent insurance companies from making a profit, but it is not my wish that they should make super profits. It is in order to ensure in the public interest that does not occur that I have legal powers in regard to allowing price increases. The Deputy can be assured that the criteria I adopt were established in the Department a number of years ago and allow a balance where possible for underwriting under the various headings of insurance cover. This well established practice allows us to carry out a clear examination of the underwriting experience and gives an indication of how the trend is in the market place.

The Chair has an absolute discretion as to the number of supplementaries that should be asked. In view of the number of Members now offering I have come to the conclusion that I would be guilty of a clear dereliction of duty if I did not pass to the next question and I propose to do so.

I disagree with that ruling. This is an important matter and I want to put a simple question to the Minister.

I have been generous on this question, but I am going to take a stand now.