HDI-Gerling opens new branch in Dublin

The industrial insurance company also confirmed its UK operation, which has for many years written business in Ireland, will continue in its responsibility for Ireland and provide claims, risk engineering and support services.

In Ireland HDI-Gerling will focus on industrial and commercial business and underwrite risks in the property, liability and engineering classes.

Paul Moraghan has joined as general manager to head the branch and Frank Hynes has also been appointed to manage the liability portfolio.

Jens Wohlthat, board member at HDI-Gerling responsible for international business, said: "The decision to enter Ireland at this time forms part of HDI-Gerling's long term strategy to become a truly global business. With Paul's local leadership and supported by the UK operation, Ireland will add a further dimension to our business."

Richard Taylor, UK and Ireland managing director, added: "This represents yet another step in our long term plans to deliver our products locally with highly respected technical and professional decision makers."