Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 15 October 2019
301. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation when the new book of quantum to be available; when it will directly influence the cost of claims; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41783/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Personal Injuries Commission (PIC) was established in 2017 to compare Ireland’s personal injury claims processes against other jurisdictions, to benchmark international personal injury awards with those in Ireland, to report on alternative compensation and resolution models and make recommendations which could enhance the Irish claims environment.
During its 18-month work programme, which concluded in July 2018, the PIC delivered two reports with 14 recommendations. One of its recommendations was that a Judicial Council, when established, be requested by the Minister for Justice and Equality to compile judicial guidelines for appropriate general damages for various types of personal injury.
The Judicial Council Act was signed into law on 23 July 2019. A commencement order was published on 10 September 2019, which provides for the appointment of the interim Secretary to the Council, and the process of identifying and recommending to the Government persons who are suitable for appointment to be lay members of the Sentencing Guidelines and Information Committee, the Judicial Conduct Committee and panels of inquiry. It is envisaged that the Judicial Council will be established before the end of this year and steps are being taken to facilitate establishment within that time frame.
The Act provides for the establishment of a Personal Injuries Guidelines Committee upon the formal establishment of the Judicial Council. This Committee is tasked with introducing new guidelines to replace the Book of Quantum. These new guidelines should help to promote consistency in the level of personal injuries damages awarded by the courts.
