Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

Of course we must do it within the terms of the Constitution. I accept, by the way, the measured approach taken by Deputy Quinn. I accept that his presentation this morning is consistent with his earlier positions, in terms of enterprise, and I understand his legitimate concerns about the constitutional framework. The Deputy made a measured contribution and I will deal with the issues he raised later.

Fundamentally, our objective is to close off a particular loophole. Mention was made of the membership of the PIAB. I accept what Deputy Penrose argued regarding the bona fides of the case but unfortunately he questioned the composition of the board and referred to members' allegiances and so forth. We all know Senator Joe O'Toole, who is the vice chairman of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board. I have had many discussions with the Senator, whose qualities as a parliamentarian I value. I also value his contribution to the PIAB. The Senator is a nominee of ICTU. He made it very clear in the Seanad that the matter before us today relates to a succinct and net issue, that is, costs that are being unnecessarily incurred when the Personal Injuries Assessment Board makes an award and, in some instances, the amount has been rejected by claimants represented by solicitors. These costs comprise two categories. First, an amount in the region of €1,500 being sought for the completion of a PIAB application form, which had led to the award.

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