The Government has published legislation to clamp down on fraudulent and exaggerated insurance claims.
The Civil Liability and Courts Bill published today allows for fines of up to €100,000 and jail terms of a maximum of ten years.
The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Mr Michael McDowell, T.D. said the bill formed a vital part of the Government's initiatives designed to reduce the time and costs involved in processing personal injury actions.
The bill also provides for the reduction of the limitation period for personal injury actions from three years to one year. This will ensure that claims are brought forward without undue delay.
The Minister said: "It will result in an easing of the insurance burden on both the personal and business sectors and of the cost to public authorities of personal injury actions, without compromising on the right of those genuinely injured to be compensated for their loss."
All statement of fact made in injury actions will now have to be supported by an affidavit. The Minister said that those who swear falsely will lose their case and will also be guilty of an offence.
