Sir, - Michael Tobin (January 9th) makes a point which requires clarification. Individual policy-holders may refer complaints directly to the office of the Insurance Ombudsman. If they fall within the terms of reference, they will be dealt with, following agreed procedures. The decision as to whether a dispute falls within the terms of reference is exclusively within the remit of the Ombudsman.
Anyone wishing to have a copy of the terms of reference may contact this office (telephone: 01-662 0899; website: www.ombudsman-insurance.ie). - Yours, etc.,
Caroline Gill, Insurance Ombudsman, 32 Upper Merrion Street, Dublin 2.