Families Urge Government to Enact Periodic Payment Order Legislation for Catastrophic Injuries
Families affected by catastrophic injuries are calling for urgent legislation on Periodic Payment Orders (PPOs) to ensure lifelong care. Luke Miggin, 20, and Kenneth Best, 57, exemplify the inadequacy of current lump sum or interim payments. The Department of Justice is drafting regulations, aiming to prevent future financial shortfalls for those needing continuous care.
Families affected by catastrophic injuries due to negligence are urging the Government to urgently enact legislation for Periodic Payment Orders (PPOs). These PPOs would provide annual, index-linked payments for lifelong care, replacing the current system of interim settlements or lump sums that often prove insufficient.
Luke Miggin, 20, from Dublin, suffered brain damage at birth due to negligence and requires 24-hour care. He and his mother, Emily, currently must apply to courts every few years for interim payments, involving numerous assessments. Luke, who communicates via eye gaze technology, stated, «I want a PPO and not have to fight all my life for something that I didn't do. I'm sick of all assessments.»
Margaret Best's son, Kenneth, 57, received a IR£2.75 million lump sum settlement in 1993 for extensive brain damage from a defective vaccine. Experts predicted he would live to 45, but the money ran out years ago, leaving Kenneth, who requires 24/7 care, without funds. Ms. Best emphasized, «The care has to continue regardless.»
Senior Counsel Alan Keating noted PPOs would ensure compensation does not run out, preventing situations where individuals are left without care or equipment. The Department of Justice stated that drafting of regulations is ongoing, with the minister intending to sign and commence them once legal matters are resolved. Luke and Emily hope the PPO legislation will be adopted before their sixth interim settlement court hearing in June.