Jim Higgins
Ceist:24 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice the reason for the delays on the part of the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal in determining claims; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal.
I am informed by the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal that current applications for compensation are being determined within a period of approximately eight months, where there are no special delaying factors involved.
I am also informed by the tribunal that the large backlog which existed a few years ago has now been reduced to approximately 300 cases, almost all of which have been delayed due to circumstances outside the control of the tribunal, such as related civil or criminal court proceedings or the absence of final medical reports.