The financial security group, which focuses on life insurance, health insurance products, said the results for the quarter ended March 31 compared to a $36.3 million dollar profit in the same time last year.

Insurance sales increased to $65.1 million, while individual insurance was up to $10.8 million.

In group and business insurance, sales increased to $54.3 million from $49.1 million.

Monique Leroux, president and CEO of the Desjardins Group, including its insurance unit, said that despite the effects of the financial crisis, the company’s life and health insurance subsidiary achieved significant growth in terms of business volume and remains a financially sound and strong company.