Courts / Dublin / Report

FBD does not provide pandemic policies and 'nobody has ever asked' for one, court told

Date
2020-10-07
Stage
Hearing Or Decision
Primary locality
Dublin
County
Dublin

Summary

In a Commercial Court hearing, insurer FBD denied providing pandemic coverage, stating no policy for Covid‑19 had ever been requested. Four Dublin bars and a Westmeath pub sued FBD, claiming their policies covered losses from closures due to outbreaks within 25 miles. FBD argued the pandemic was outside the clause, citing specialist overseas brokers for such coverage. Counsel cited an English High Court ruling favouring the FCA, but argued the UK decision should not bind the Irish court. The parties discussed a potential breach of an implied undertaking regarding media release of pre‑trial documents. Judge Denis McDonald called the matter serious and urged investigation. The case remains ongoing, with parties agreeing to liaise on the undertaking issue. The hearing continues.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: FBD does not provide pandemic policies and 'nobody has ever asked' for one, court told. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision

When:

Places mentioned

Court Venue
  • English High Court
  • Supreme Court
Secondary Mention
Address Area
  • Hibernian Way

Topics

Stage Hearing Or Decision

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