Hughes Insurance Support 'Redlined' Newry Motorists Who Are Refused Motor Insurance

Hughes Insurance, the largest independent broker for car insurance in Northern Ireland, has recorded a number of incidents where motorists have had their insurance policy renewal declined by their existing provider. The incidents indicate that certain insurance providers are 'redlining' specific areas in Northern Ireland - including Newry.

'Redlining' is the practice of denying services, such as insurance, to residents in certain areas. It was thought to have been eradicated from the local market - until now. Other incidents of 'redlining' have also been recorded in Glengormley, Inner Belfast and Downpatrick.

Paul Bodell, Branch Manager of Hughes Insurance commented: "We can confirm we have had concerned individuals approaching Hughes Insurance Newry looking for motor insurance cover, as their original provider has declined their renewal - indicating they are withdrawing services from the area. We would like to advise the people of Newry that Hughes Insurance is here to stay. We have supported these motorists as we believe everyone in Northern Ireland has a right to cost effective insurance cover no matter where they live."

Gareth Brady, Chief Executive of Hughes Insurance, advised: "We had hoped 'redlining' was a thing of the past and it is obviously a concern for the people in these specified areas. Hughes Insurance is happy to support any individual on a case by case basis who find themselves subject to this practice. As a local independent broker it is our policy to support all customers across Northern Ireland. In the last 18 months we have invested Pounds Sterling 1 million in our business infrastructure, opened four new branches, including our Newry branch, and employed over 40 new staff to deliver this service. We have over 30 years of experience in the Northern Ireland car insurance market and have built our business by providing the best insurance products on the market at a competitive price - it's how we do business."

Contacts: Navigator Blue Adrian Beattie and Claire Guiney 02890 246722

SOURCE: Hughes Insurance