Seamus Kirk
Ceist:56 Mr. Kirk asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the system for processing personal inquiry claims is being reviewed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [27937/00]
Written Answers. - Compensation Claims.
In 1996, Deloitte & Touche were commissioned to examine insurance costs in this country. Their report found that among the main contributory factors to rising premium costs, were the high legal costs component of small claim settlements as well as the high level of general damages awards, relative to special damages in smaller claims.
A special working group was established to advise on the establishment of a personal injuries tribunal and to examine issues surrounding alternative systems of personal injury compensation in operation in other jurisdictions.
The group's final report was recently circulated, along with a draft memorandum for Government. On the basis of that report it is hoped to bring proposals to Government as quickly as possible with the objective of putting arrangements in place to reduce the costs of delivering personal injury compensation by streamlining the claims process. It is also intended to publish the group's report.