I propose to take Questions Nos. 277 to 282, inclusive, together.
Some of the information regarding issues raised by the Deputy in his questions is available on the PIAB's website at www.piab.ie and is updated regularly. In this regard, the latest figures available on the number of applications to PIAB for assessment of quantum indicate that, at 21 April 2005, 19,099 calls had been received, 898,206 website hits had been recorded and a total of 7,196 applications for assessment had been made. These are broken down as follows: 1,879 employer liability applications; 2,204 public liability applications; and 3,113 motor accident applications.
However, many details requested by the Deputy relate to operational matters for which the chief executive officer of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board holds responsibility. Further information is, however, currently being collated by the PIAB and will be made available to me shortly. I will ask the PIAB to make this information available to the Deputy. I also understand that the PIAB will be releasing this information publicly.
Regarding the funding of the PIAB, the Exchequer has provided funds of €5.5 million for the set up and running costs of the PIAB in the years 2003 and 2004. A further €2.5 million has been provided for in the Department's 2005 Estimates. The PIAB is expected to be self funding by year end 2005.
I am satisfied that the statutory obligations relating to all applications received by the PIAB have been met. My understanding is that data relating to the first 25 assessments will be released to the public shortly. These awards have been made within nine months of the relevant respondents consenting to assessment, as required by the Personal Injuries Assessment Board Act 2003.
With regard to volumes, the PIAB expects to assess in the region of 10,000 cases per annum when fully operational. The PIAB started handling all personal injury cases in the country from 22 July 2004. As it approaches its first anniversary next July, it will be on target with current applications standing at 7,196. This is all the more significant bearing in mind that the natural flow of claims into the PIAB was slowed by the acceleration of approximately 16,000 cases into the litigation route prior to the PIAB commencing operations. I am very pleased with the operation of the PIAB to date.