The Tánaiste Ms Harney this morning launched an initiative supported jointly by IBEC and ICTU for dealing with injured employees.
The initiative provides a step-by-step approach to occupational injury or illness and addresses the issue of financial compensation. The purpose of the initiative is to expedite a return to work and to avoid legal costs.
As part of the initiative, a new code sets out a system to provide assistance and rehabilitation as well as meeting immediate medical needs and costs arising from workplace accidents.
The objectives of the initiative are to support and operate in tandem with the Personal Injury Assessment Board system for assessment of compensation, which is due to come into effect shortly, starting initially with employee compensation claims.
Greater emphasis will be placed on getting well with rehabilitative support and resuming work activity.
Speaking at the launch, IBEC Director General, Mr Turlough O' Sullivan, said "This joint initiative supported by IBEC and ICTU represents a significant achievement and commitment to facilitate and encourage a speedy return to work.
The voluntary code has the support of IBEC, ICTU, Department of Enterprise and Employment, Construction Industry Federation, Health and Safety Authority, Irish Insurance Federation, PIAB.