Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 8 Jul 1992

Vol. 422 No. 4

Written Answers. - Employer Liability Insurance.

Edward Nealon

Question:

99 Mr. Nealon asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the former United Meat Packers Company did not have employer liability insurance for the main body of their workforce and did not have a separate fund to cover employer liability insurance and as a result of this an employee (details supplied), who suffered a very serious injury last year, has now no method open to him to receive appropriate compensation; if, in view of this, he will introduce provisions whereby a statutory obligation would be imposed on all companies to maintain employer liability insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Industry and Commerce (Mr. O'Malley):

I understand that the income maintenance and compensatory needs of employees injured in a work situation, whether in a company or otherwise, are compulsorily insurable under the social welfare system, the full contribution falling to be made by the employer.

My function as the insurance supervisory authority is to ensure that, through the authorisation and prudential supervision of insurance companies, the insurance cover that the consumer and business require is available. I do not contemplate introducing measures to make employer liability insurance compulsory for companies.