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Lack of competition in car insurance

Insurance agent should be well aware of the benefits of competition and choice for consumers.

Editor: I was surprised by Andrew Tablotney’s spirited defense of ICBC’s monopoly and his position against competition (The Times, Aug. 28).

Apart from the fact that like many, I fail to see the relationship between ICBC high auto insurance premiums and the price of real estate, Tablotney, as a private sector entrepreneur competing for business, should be well aware of the benefits of competition and choice for consumers.

After all, while every auto insurance regime has its ups and downs, competition allows drivers to make the ultimate decision about the price offered and the service received. If they don't like one or both, they can take their business elsewhere. They are, in fact, put in the driver's seat — a “luxury” not afforded to B.C. drivers.

Lindsay Olson,

vice-president,

B.C., Saskatchewan and Manitoba,

Insurance Bureau of Canada