WASHINGTON–The president of the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America took the insurance industry to task today for its failure to defend itself over Hurricane Katrina claims handling and its inability to provide technology for independent agents to work efficiently.

At a panel discussion held here during the Alexandria, Va.-based association's annual Legislative Conference and Convention, IIABA President Alex Soto criticized industry practices, which he said have made life difficult for independent agents.

Joining Mr. Soto on the panel were Spencer Donkin, senior vice president of sales and agency distribution for Safeco; James S. Hyatt, president, personal lines, Hanover Insurance Group; John H. Lynch, chief executive officer, U.S. small business, Zurich North America; and Robert P. Restrepo Jr., president, chairman and CEO of State Auto Insurance Companies.