Vol. 568 No. 5
413 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will introduce the promised legislation to provide for sworn affidavits to be required to curb fraudulent claims which are contributing to the high cost of insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16938/03]
414 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will be introducing the promised guidelines for damages for personal injuries in order to mitigate the cost of insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16939/03]
415 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will introduce his promised provision for mandatory mediation in insurance related claims in order to reduce legal costs associated with same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16940/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 413 to 415, inclusive, together.
An Agreed Programme for Government between Fianna Fáil and the Progressive Democrats includes commitments in relation to all the measures referred to in these questions. Progress is substantially complete on preparation of legislative proposals in this regard and I will bring these to Government in the coming weeks. Among my proposals will be a provision that certain forms of action will require the support of sworn affidavits so as to create liability in perjury for fraudulent claims and a new provision to allow the courts to make orders to deal with those who make false and exaggerated claims. It is also my intention to introduce a mediation conference system for personal injury claims. I am also considering further how the commitment to establish a set of guidelines on damages for personal injuries might best be implemented. I am aware that the Courts Service has made significant progress on this issue.
