Ensuring the brokers all play by the rules

It was to be expected that the removal of rules setting limits on commissions charged by insurance brokers would draw fire from consumers. After all, commissions and their effect on selling patterns have been a recurring concern to consumer lobby groups.

However, the industry is right when it claims there is a difference between commissions on non-life insurance - the area formerly covered by the rules - and life assurance where investment performance can be seriously skewed by the way commissions are charged.

Of more concern to consumers is an assurance by the Irish Brokers' Association, the industry lobby, that it will vigorously oppose any disclosure rules on commissions in the future. The Minister, Noel Treacy, has said the Insurance Bill to be published by the end of the year will deal with this. It remains to be seen.