Mattie McGrath blasts insurers over pub business-interruption denials

Deputy Mattie McGrath raised a constituent case about business interruption insurance for a pub in Tipperary, saying insurers are refusing claims because an outbreak could not be proven to have occurred inside the premises. He called the practice "outrageous nitpicking" and urged action, noting Minister Fleming is engaged on the issue.

Case raised by Deputy

A constituent in Tipperary with business interruption insurance told Deputy Mattie McGrath that an insurer has declined cover after arguing the premises were not closed due to an outbreak inside the pub. The Deputy said the refusal came despite pandemic closure orders and described the decision as unacceptable.

Allegations against insurers

The Deputy accused insurance companies of "picking off one by one" individual business people who are "stretched to the collar," claiming refusals are based on narrow requirements of proof about where transmission occurred. He characterised the behaviour as "outrageous nitpicking."

Government response

Mr. Tejiaak responded in the debate, thanking the Deputy for raising the matter and acknowledging the stress on individual business owners and publicans. He said insurance companies should honour their obligations and that Minister Fleming is engaged on the topic more generally.

Planned follow-up for the industry

Mr. Tejiaak told the Dáil he did not have the specifics of the case raised but indicated the issue would be pursued for the industry more broadly. The exchange highlighted calls for government engagement on business interruption insurance for pubs and publicans.

Concerns for publicans

Both the Deputy and the responding speaker emphasised the pressure on publicans and small business owners, saying refusals to pay claims are causing significant distress and need to be addressed by insurers and ministers.