Peter Fitzpatrick (Louth, Independent) | Oireachtas source

To go back to my first question on Garda compensation I asked how many claims are outstanding. I also asked how much was paid out in 2018 and the Minister replied that €15 million was available and €1.8 million was surplus. I presume €13 million was paid out in compensation in 2018. Many gardaí in my area have contacted me with regard to their claims, some of which go back three, four or five years. I cannot believe information is awaited from doctors. Any Tom, Dick or Harry would find the information a lot quicker than in three or four years. These people leave their homes in the morning. I speak to the wives of gardaí. Two gardaí were murdered in recent years and families are very concerned. If a Garda is injured in the line of duty, he or she should be looked after. It is not acceptable that some of these claims could go back five, six, seven or eight years. Are many claims outstanding? How much money has been paid in 2018 so far?