Dublin set for gridlock due to protest against Regulator

Quinn Group customers and suppliers are set to bring gridlock to the capital today with a massive lorry convoy in support of the beleaguered firm.

Around 300 trucks will take part in the demonstration, organised by companies worried after Quinn Insurance was placed into permanent administration earlier this month.

The group of 170 firms then plan to hand in a letter at the Taoiseach’s office expressing their dismay at the Government‘s handling of the case.

A spokeswoman for the protesters claimed Quinn Insurance and its workers had been treated disgracefully over the last four weeks.

“The Government needs to realise the far-reaching impact the Financial Regulator’s decision will have,” she said.

“There are businesses all over the country who rely on the Quinn Group in order to maintain trading, particularly during the toughest financial climate of our lifetimes.”

The group are also demonstrating to encourage regulator Matthew Elderfield to reopen more of Quinn Insurance’s UK business.

While Mr Elderfield has given the go-ahead for some work to resume in the division, administrators have warned of staff cuts as a result of ongoing restrictions.

“The current ban on NI/UK business means that Quinn Insurance is not allowed to renew the policies of long standing, loyal and commercially sound customers,” the spokeswoman said.

“If we cannot renew with Quinn Insurance we must go back into the market and approach a new insurance firm with whom we have no previous relationship or experience.”

The lorry cavalcade will travel towards the Red Cow Roundabout, then make its way along Dublin’s quays before embarking on a second lap.