Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 10 Oct 2001

Vol. 541 No. 5

Written Answers. - Personal Injuries Assessment Board.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

130 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress made to date by the interdepartmental implementation group on the establishment of a personal injuries assessment board; when she expects the group to report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23196/01]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Treacy):

Following this Government's decision to establish a personal injuries assessment board, and in accordance with that decision, an interdepartmental implementation group was set up to progress the establishment of the new board. The group has had a number of meetings.

This group is examining the operational issues surrounding the establishment of an assessment board and the legal implications, including what legislative changes, if any, will be necessary to establish the PIAB. The work includes consideration of how the board should actually work in practice and the procedures it should adopt. The group expects to report by the end of this year.

I am confident that the establishment of the PIAB will achieve a reduction in the delivery costs of personal injury compensation for work related injuries, in its initial term of operation, and later in motor injury cases by reducing the delivery costs of compensation. There is no intention to reduce the amount paid to claimants. The level of awards made by the board will conform to the awards made by the courts.

Question No. 131 answered with Question No. 112.

Question No. 132 answered with Question No. 110.