The Alliance for Insurance Reform has stated that insurance companies are taking their policyholders and the Government for a ride when it comes to the insurance reform plan. Business and voluntary organisations have seen no reduction in their insurance premiums while a report published today shows that motor insurance has fallen by only 2% in the past year. The value of awards has reduced significantly but that is being pocketed by the insurance companies. All the while, as the Taoiseach knows, the industry has seen record bumper profits. We must ensure the insurance industry passes on the savings from reduced awards to customers. That is what Deputy Doherty's Bill, which is currently before the Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform, and Taoiseach, would achieve. Is it not now time for the Government to end its opposition to that necessary legislation?

The Government deserves to be commended and the Minister of State, Deputy Fleming, in particular should be commended on the work he has done in respect of insurance reform. I take the point that a significant range of reforms has now been enacted and while the cost of motor insurance has come down, other insurance premiums have not. The Government will be examining the issue to ensure we get premiums down.