Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 13 May 2004
18 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position with regard to the operation of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board; the number of staff recruited to date; when she expects that the board will be operational; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13825/04]
View answerThe Personal Injuries Assessment Board was established by ministerial order on 13 April 2004. From 1 June 2004, all personal injury claims arising from workplace accidents, where an employee is seeking compensation from his-her employer, must be referred to the Personal Injuries Assessment Board before legal proceedings are issued.
The structure and staffing levels of the PIAB have been agreed. The PIAB, when fully operational, will have a staffing complement of up to 85 in addition to the CEO. The PIAB will also utilise an out-sourced service centre to assist injured parties in completion of their claim submissions and ensure a comprehensive, fair and independent service is provided.
The actual recruitment of staff is an operational matter for which the CEO of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board has responsibility. However, I understand a significant recruitment campaign is under way and a number of key management and assessor positions have been filled.
The establishment of the PIAB is a significant milestone in the Government's insurance reform programme which will lead to reduced insurance premia to the benefit of both consumers and businesses alike. By eliminating the need for litigation costs where legal issues are not in dispute, the PIAB will significantly reduce the cost of delivering compensation. The PIAB will also offer speedier assessments to the benefit of genuine claimants.
