Seanad debates

Wednesday, 5 November 2003

Insurance Industry Reform: Motion.

 

This is not a problem that can wait, which is why I am unhappy with the Government's motion. I read the motion carefully and I agree that the price of insurance is one of the main factors. According to the motion, the Personal Injuries Assessment Board has been established on an interim basis which is good. The Government has approved the priority drafting and general scheme of the Bill to establish the PIAB on a statutory basis and it is planned to enact the legislation before the end of the year. There are about four sitting weeks before the Christmas recess. I would love to be told by the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment that the Bill will be passed by both Houses of the Oireachtas by then. The motion also notes that a civil liabilities and courts Bill is being prepared by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. It is the Government's intention to progress this Bill in parallel with the legislation on the PIAB to ensure that both come into force at the beginning of 2004. A Bill which has not yet been published is to come into force at the start of 2004 according to the Government's own motion. The motion further commends the contents of an unpublished Bill. While the Government has stated intentions, the normal protocol is that we discuss Bills once they have been published. It is not the normal practice for Government to publish the heads of a Bill. The legislation in question is obviously complex, but we are told it will be in force by 1 January 2004.

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