asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that cases arise constantly where employed persons injured by accident in the course of their employment are unable to obtain the compensation to which, under the Workmen's Compensation Act they are lawfully entitled, because the employer is not in a financial position to meet the claim and neglects to cover by insurance his risk under the Act and whether in the light of these facts he will take steps to ensure that employers will be obliged to provide by insurance or otherwise against the incidence of claims of this kind.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Workers' Compensation Act.
I am not aware that cases arise constantly where persons entitled to compensation under the Workmen's Compensation Act, 1934, are unable to obtain payment of such compensation because the employer is not in a financial position to meet the claim and had neglected to insure against his liability under the Act. If the Deputy will furnish me with particulars showing that there is any widespread default of this kind I will have the position examined.
Will the Parliamentary Secretary take an early opportunity to consult State officials who will supply the information or ask county registrars for information as to the number of people who are unable to obtain compensation under the Workmen's Compensation Act because of the financial inability of employers to meet such claims or their failure to insure against risks? Will the Parliamentary Secretary, who is apparently looking for information to investigate the matter, ask the Department of Justice to obtain the information for him, because then he will have authoritative information and official information?
I will inquire.