Mr. Jackie McMahon:

Often an issue arises in discussions around the settlement quantum. Frankly, people are shocked that they could be liable as they firmly believe they have done nothing wrong, shown a reasonable duty of care so nothing should be paid and that what we are paying is astronomical. I am afraid our response to that whole discussion is that we have many people who have a lot of experience of precedence and know what is paid for, and what type of edits. I agree that most of the time there are large payout amounts. The conversation goes along the lines of saying this is going to cost us €100,000 in a settlement with fees of 40% but very often it goes as high as 70% or lower amounts. We offer them, say, €150,000 and ask whether they want to take the risk on.

None of them would take the risk on at that stage. It really is a frustration with the system. It is a system of high payouts and high costs and no one feels in control. I feel that pain.