Peter Burke (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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160. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment what mechanism is in place in the Personal Injuries Assessment Board to inform applicants of progress on their case (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15368/23]

Dara Calleary (Mayo, Fianna Fail)
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The Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) delivers major benefits by providing a low-cost, quick and fair option in injury compensation. It annually saves tens of millions of euro which would otherwise be paid in costs by parties, and ultimately be a cost borne by policyholders.

PIAB has a number of mechanisms in place to keep applicants and/or their representatives informed in relation to the progress of their claim:

- A claimant or their representative can contact PIAB’s customer service centre (0818 829 121) for information in relation to the status of their claim.

- Responsive to the needs of customers PIAB is investing in a digital platform which will enable all claimants to have instant access to the progress of their claim. PIAB has already developed an on-line solicitor portal for processing claims - the status of a person’s claim is available through this portal to claimant representatives.

- In addition, PIAB writes to claimants, or their solicitors if represented, at every milestone in relation to their claim, if any information is required in relation to their claim, or if any particular action is required by them.

- Finally, PIAB’s website www.piab.ie contains general information about the claims process and how a typical claim progresses.

On 13 December 2022 the Personal Injuries Resolution Board Act 2022 was signed into law by the President and I commenced the first phase of the Act the 13 February 2023.

Enactment and commencement of this legislation has been a priority for me since my appointment as Minister. This Act will transform PIAB into an enhanced personal injuries resolution board. Under the Act PIAB are being given a new function to allow them offer mediation as a means of resolving a claim and I am working with the agency to commence this and other provisions as quickly as possible in the coming months.