Róisín Shortall (Dublin North West, Social Democrats)
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148. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the steps he will take to address the reported backlog of cases at the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal, with reports of persons waiting many years for decisions on their claims; the number of cases awaiting decision submitted in each year for the past ten years and which remain unresolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42842/18]

Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael)
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Because of the manner in which cases are recorded, in particular cases which are open but not actively pursued by the applicant, it is not possible at this time to provide the Deputy with the number of cases awaiting decision and those which are deemed to be open. I have asked that a detailed assessment be made of the caseload with a view to clarifying this matter, and to inform a full review of processing capacity under the scheme.

In the meantime, I have ensured that a full Tribunal membership has been maintained in order to continue to address claims as promptly as possible. The term of office for all Ordinary members has been extended to June 2019 pending the completion of a recruitment process for new members.

Applications are processed with a minimum of formality compared to court proceedings where compensation is sought under the Civil Liability Acts, however, in making their decisions Tribunal Members must be satisfied that all supporting documentation has been provided and is in order for example, Garda reports arising from criminal investigations, medical reports. The absence of such information can sometimes lead to delays in bringing cases to finalisation.