Derek McDowell (Labour)

I invite the Minister to make some comments on the preparation of the book of quantum. This is the only reference in the Bill to the book of quantum and it does not spell out in any great detail what it does. It only states that it will contain general guidelines as to the amount that may be awarded. The impression is sometimes created that these are relatively simple things and in certain cases that is the position. Particular types of disabling injuries can matter more to some people than to others. For example, if my right hand were disabled I would have a serious problem because I can do very little with my left hand. Others may have a different view or be more ambidextrous. A particular injury could be much more serious for a person who does one job rather than another. Someone who requires to be dextrous and active and does physical work may be substantially more disadvantaged by a particular injury than someone who has a desk job. Does the Tánaiste foresee that the book of quantum will deal with issues of that sort?