Seanad debates

Tuesday, 27 May 2003

Sustaining Progress: Statements.

 

In spite of the mountain of evidence that insurance costs are way out of line with those in developed countries and adding hugely to employer difficulties, nothing substantial has happened. I mentioned earlier the new agency which has been set up in relation to the processing of claims. We have been very strong on diagnosis over a long period and on the prescriptions: awards and legal costs are too high, and the system is too cumbersome and needs to be streamlined. However, as of now and in this programme, all we are doing is picking at the problem. I give credit to the current Minister for Transport, Deputy Séamus Brennan, for his actions some years ago as a Minister of State. He decided to grasp the nettle but was faced down by his colleagues because of pressure from the legal eagles. This area must be tackled if we are to make and sustain progress.

Comments

No comments

Log in or join to post a public comment.