Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

In the first instance, we would need a plethora of lawyers and all the other individuals necessary to deal with liability issues, which are a matter for the courts. The legal issues are not a matter for the PIAB. It is being set up to assess what people are entitled to and ensure it is paid to them as quickly as possible. That is its whole function and purpose. The issue of liability does not arise in many cases.

Senator Coghlan apologised privately to me for being unable to attend as he had an engagement in Northern Ireland. It is unusual for either House to meet on a Monday and I understand he could not be here. I am not in a position to accept his amendment. Both parties to a dispute are free to reject an assessment and to proceed to have the matter determined through the courts.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.

Section 16 agreed to.

SECTION 17.