ISME, the Irish SME association has rejected the notion that we need to hold a referendum on whiplash awards.
Speaking today ISME CEO Neil McDonnell stated:
“It is unfair for the Government to lay the blame for the size of whiplash awards at the feet of the judiciary. Reports at the weekend of a threat to hold a referendum on general damages are not welcomed by ISME. There is no need to hold a referendum on the matter, as the Oireachtas already has the power to cap general damages if it so wishes.”
ISME believes the Government should be working now with the judiciary on the outline of a revised book of quantum. In light of the weight of recent reports from the Personal Injuries Commission, and from PIAB, it is evident that range values for awards in the minor and moderate categories in the book of quantum need to be reduced by between 75% and 80%.
