We are living in difficult times with an uncertain economic climate. Issues such as the recent flooding claims as well as claims arising from the "Big Freeze" create challenging financial conditions for all aspects of the Insurance sector that we must negotiate our way through.

We also have the added challenge of increased educational standards with an emphasis on increased professionalism. The regulatory developments of recent years in consumer protection, compliance and the need for continuous professional development also create an added workload for all members.

It is therefore important that your local institute ensures to deliver the appropriate CPD lectures on topical and relevant issues on a regular basis. This is why this year we have continued our successful lunchtime lecture series along with several new early evening and afternoon lectures of up to three hours. This coupled with access to the excellent online e-learning facility will help ensure that all members can attain the required number of hours to comply with regulatory requirements.

We have a large number of students taking exams this year to ensure compliance with minimum competency requirements. In this respect we have 6 exam sessions taking place in 2010 to ensure students have the best opportunity to comply with the regulations by the deadline of 2011. We are here to assist these members and indeed all members with any queries that they may have or issues they need resolved. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need to have an issue raised at a national level.

Finally, I would like to thank all council members of The Insurance Institute of Galway for their continued support and I would like to welcome the new members to council for 2010/2011. We look forward to working with you in the year ahead.

Paul McGrady
President
The Insurance Institute of Galway