Research carried out by consultancy firm Deloitte has indicated uncertainty in the Irish motor insurance industry over future profitability in the market.
The research found that premiums in Ireland had fallen by up to 10 per cent in 2007.
While more than 40 per cent of respondents believed that premiums would increase by 0-10 per cent in 2008, an additional 40 per cent also predicted that premiums would decrease by 0-10 per cent.
Of the motor insurance representatives attending the annual Deloitte Motor Insurance Seminar, nearly 45 per cent of respondents were more optimistic about market conditions, while over 35 per cent were less optimistic than last year.
Over 70 per cent of respondents believed the Personal Injuries Assessment Board was having a positive impact on compensation culture. In addition, over 70 per cent were more optimistic about road safety, up from 56 per cent last year.
Similarly, over 60 per cent of respondents believed that the standard of driver behaviour has improved over the last 12 months.