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December 22, 2000 Letters
to the Editor -- Canadian Business Dear Editor, Your Dec. 11, 2000 commentary about Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI) begs for clarification. I can appreciate that your ideological perspective, not to mention your market research, directs you to cater to an audience that may not be pre-disposed towards public insurance and Crown corporations, but that's no reason to ignore the facts. The fact is, Manitoba premiums are consistently amongst the lowest in the country - especially for families with younger drivers. Next year will mark the third year in a row that most Manitoba motorists will be paying less for an auto insurance package that is second to none. Over the last three years, that's about $100 million that Manitobans have saved in vehicle insurance premiums. Canadian Business wrongly states MPI is a monopoly and suggests that private insurers don't really exist here in the netherworld west of Toronto. In fact, optional auto coverages are sold by any company that wishes to enter the Manitoba market. In fact, MPI competes, very well thank you, with private insurers for this business. MPI is owned in Manitoba and operated by Manitobans. We are committed to the community and demonstrate this in a number of ways. For example, our investment income, which is used to help keep down the cost of premiums, also helps build local facilities through a policy of purchasing health care, school division and municipal bonds. Over three decades of operations, MPI has put more than $1.3 billion back into Manitoba communities this way. True, the notion of giving back to the community - not unlike the way private insurers, such as Great-West Life and London Life, do - by supporting education was not overwhelmingly well-received. But, as a locally-based, responsive organization, MPI listened and took appropriate action to make sure motorists received the full benefit of our financial strength. Good value, excellent coverage and a responsive, locally-owned and operated organization that listens to its customers. That's a strange definition of an "anachronistic Crown corporation," if you ask me. Sincerely, Brian
Geary
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