Insurance companies asked 'who is looking after customers’ interests' as costs spiral

Insurance companies have been accused of engaging in a “blame game” while motor insurance costs spiral out of control.

Fianna Fáil’s finance spokesman Michael McGrath said, despite premiums increasing by 38.6% in the year to July, car insurance costs may have increased further since then, even as one firm was urging customers to play a role in reducing them.

Deputy McGrath referred to a letter issued by insurer Aviva to its customers in which it said it was “very concerned about the impact of rising insurance premiums” and sought to explain the reasons for the price rises.