|
December 22, 2000 Letters
to the Editor -- Winnipeg Free Press Dear Editor, Mr. Coy's Dec. 20 letter deserves a response. Without having specific information about his previous insurance coverage, it's impossible to confirm whether he had an insurance package in Ontario that provided as much protection as does the MPI's Autopac coverage. Generally, sport utility vehicles are often more costly to repair and more popular with thieves. Both private and public insurers base premiums on these realities, often using the Vehicle Information Centre of Canada's system of rating vehicles. The system simply ties cost of claims to the premiums paid - most people agree that is the fairest system available. The fact is, generally, Manitoba premiums are consistently amongst the lowest in the country, according to independent studies. For example, a recent study using material gathered by Runzheimer Canada shows that Manitobans paid either the lowest or second-lowest premiums in the country. Next year, Manitoba motorists will receive the full benefit of a 16.6 per cent one-time discount, marking the third year in a row that most vehicles owners will be paying less for their auto insurance. Over the last three years, that's about $100 million that Manitobans have saved in vehicle insurance premiums. Further, MPI is a Manitoba-owned and operated organization that is committed to this province. Just one example is how MPI uses its investment income. Instead of sending surpluses back to overseas or eastern owners, MPI uses this to help keep down the cost of premiums - by more than $80 for each policy last year. Interest from investment income 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. MPI now, and for the past 30 years, continues to operate on the principles of providing good value, excellent coverage and being a responsive, locally-owned and operated organization that listens to its customers. Sincerely, Brian
Geary
|