Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 Feb 2003

Vol. 562 No. 1

Written Answers - Asbestos Exposure.

Kathleen Lynch

Question:

165 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Finance the number of cases settled in regard to the cases for damages taken against the State arising from possible exposures to asbestos within the Leinster House complex and State owned buildings generally; the total amount paid out to date in compensation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5377/03]

Minister for Finance (Mr. McCreevy)

The total number of such cases in which settlements have been reached or awards have been made is 11 and the total amount paid to date in respect of compensation and legal costs is €1,020,000. These 11 cases arose prior to the assignment to the State claims agency of the handling of such cases.

The State claims agency is currently handling 506 claims for damages against the State for alleged exposure to asbestos. None of these has been settled and, since they are in judicial process, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further on any of them. However, arising from the case recently concluded by the Supreme Court, I reiterate my strong welcome to the unanimous decision allowing the appeal by the Commissioners of Public Works. Without prejudice to the merits of any of the cases still in process, I reaffirm my determination that all arms of the State will vigorously defend the dramatically increasing number of compensation claims taken at central and local government level and beyond.

Commentary on such claims often seems to overlook the fact that it is the taxpayers of Ireland who have to meet the cost of awards and settlements, and the substantial associated legal costs. Apart from the direct costs, the constant threat of compensation claims inhibits the provision and extension of desirable public services while, on a wider front, the effect on insurance premia and hence competitiveness threatens the livelihood of many thousands of workers. As Minister for Finance, I fully intend to honour my fiduciary obligations to every taxpayer and to eliminate any perception that the State might be seen as a "soft touch" for compensation claims.

Question No. 166 answered with Question No. 127.