Tánaiste welcomes passing of Personal Injuries Assessment Bill 2003

The Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Mary Harney, T.D., today (Friday 19th. December 2003) welcomed the passing of the Personal Injuries Assessment Bill 2003 (PIAB) by both Houses of the Oireachtas.

This Bill provides for the establishment of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board on a statutory basis. Its objective is to tackle the delivery cost of speedier compensation to genuine claimants while reducing the cost of insurance for consumers and businesses alike.

Commenting on the Bill the Tánaiste said "I believe the passing of this Bill is a key step in driving the Government's Insurance Reform Programme. Our commitment to consumers and businesses to reduce insurance in this country is being delivered upon and already the effects of our programme are delivering results".

The Bill is expected to be signed into law by end of year and commenced in the new year. The Board is expected to commence operations early in 2004.

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