Insurance Ireland welcomes the statement from Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Digital and Company Regulation Dara Calleary T.D., on the extension of the Injuries Resolution Board’s (formerly PIAB) mediation service to public liability personal injury claims. Minister Calleary’s announcement of the extension of mediation services marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance the efficiency and fairness of the claims resolution process, and reflects the Government’s commitment to the Action Plan for Insurance Reform. The introduction of mediation for workplace accident claims late last year has already proven successful, with nearly 40% of claimants expressing willingness to engage in the mediation process. Mediation provides a very useful avenue for resolution for claimants and respondents alike, offering a swift, cost-effective and mutually beneficial alternative to traditional litigation. Litigation is typically the costliest and slowest method of claim settlement, usually incurring significant legal costs which can make up a majority of the claim value. By expanding mediation services to public liability injury claims, the Injuries Resolution Board can assist in addressing a broader spectrum of issues, including claim value, extent of injury, and contributory negligence, thereby fostering a more equitable and transparent claims resolution framework. Mediation provides the Injuries Resolution Board with the ability to take on a significant number of new cases, including those where liability is not agreed, allowing these cases to avoid going straight to litigation. Minister Calleary’s announcement comes on the heels of a landmark Supreme Court judgment affirming the legal validity of the Personal Injuries Guidelines, underscoring the importance of consistency and certainty in award determinations. This legal clarity paves the way for greater acceptance of the Injuries Resolution Board assessments, driving further efficiencies and savings in both time and litigation costs. Speaking about today’s announcement from Minister Calleray, Moyagh Murdock, Chief Executive, Insurance Ireland said “Insurance Ireland and our members fully support the Government’s mission to foster a more accessible, competitive, and sustainable insurance landscape. As the industry continues to evolve, we look forward to collaborating with policymakers and stakeholders to drive positive change and deliver tangible benefits to consumers and businesses across Ireland. The mediation process will lead to quicker resolutions and payments, ultimately providing a streamlined and efficient path resolving injury claims which will benefit claimants and consumers in general.