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26/01/2024
DUP Calls For Action On Car Insurance Price Increases
The DUP has called on the UK government to investigate car insurance price increases, especially for young drivers, in Northern Ireland.
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart said: “Turning seventeen is a huge landmark in the lives of so many young people, because it allows them to get behind the wheel, with a view to getting those 'R' plates embracing the freedom that offers. In a place like Northern Ireland, with so many people living in rural locations with limited public transport options, that ability to drive and make your own way from A to B is vital.
"However, the trend in car insurance prices for young people is proving hugely problematic, with an extra £1000 added to insurance premiums for those aged 17-20 in the last year alone. Many young drivers are now facing a cost of £3000 or more to obtain insurance. That is a huge sum of money, and for many young people and many families, it is simple unaffordable.
"We need the Government to investigate why this rapid and steep increase in insurance costs has happened, and to ensure that the market is not profiteering at the expense of young drivers. Indeed, there are questions to be asked as to why insurance for all drivers has seen average prices rise by around a third in one year.
"We simply cannot stand idly by whilst young drivers are driven off the road, or even worse, that they gamble with driving without insurance. That poses huge risks to all road users. We need our young people to continue to be able to drive, to allow them to move freely whether that be for education, for employment and simply enjoyment. Obtainable car insurance is key to this."
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart said: “Turning seventeen is a huge landmark in the lives of so many young people, because it allows them to get behind the wheel, with a view to getting those 'R' plates embracing the freedom that offers. In a place like Northern Ireland, with so many people living in rural locations with limited public transport options, that ability to drive and make your own way from A to B is vital.
"However, the trend in car insurance prices for young people is proving hugely problematic, with an extra £1000 added to insurance premiums for those aged 17-20 in the last year alone. Many young drivers are now facing a cost of £3000 or more to obtain insurance. That is a huge sum of money, and for many young people and many families, it is simple unaffordable.
"We need the Government to investigate why this rapid and steep increase in insurance costs has happened, and to ensure that the market is not profiteering at the expense of young drivers. Indeed, there are questions to be asked as to why insurance for all drivers has seen average prices rise by around a third in one year.
"We simply cannot stand idly by whilst young drivers are driven off the road, or even worse, that they gamble with driving without insurance. That poses huge risks to all road users. We need our young people to continue to be able to drive, to allow them to move freely whether that be for education, for employment and simply enjoyment. Obtainable car insurance is key to this."
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28 February 2017
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01 September 2011
Soaring Cost Of Car Cover Slammed
News that the Consumer Council is to ask the Office of Fair Trading to examine the car insurance market in Northern Ireland has been broadly welcomed. South Down MLA Jim Wells has supported the move and said last night: "Motorists in Northern Ireland are very well aware of the high costs of running a car here.
Soaring Cost Of Car Cover Slammed
News that the Consumer Council is to ask the Office of Fair Trading to examine the car insurance market in Northern Ireland has been broadly welcomed. South Down MLA Jim Wells has supported the move and said last night: "Motorists in Northern Ireland are very well aware of the high costs of running a car here.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
