VICTIMS OF OMAGH CALL FOR REVIEW ON CLAIMS
Victims of Omagh call for review on claims
By Marie Foy
A SPOKESMAN for the Omagh bomb victims to-day called on the whole compensation system in Northern Ireland to be re-examined.
Michael Gallagher was speaking after Victims Minister Des Browne announced a review of the practice of lawyers viewing the scars of applicants in criminal compensation cases.
The review follows concern after two Omagh bomb victims complained that the current procedure was humiliating and degrading.
Mr Browne has appointed Professor Desmond Greer from Queen's University's Faculty of Law to undertake the review.
The minister said: "There was widespread public concern following the revelation that two women victims of the Omagh bombing were greatly distressed at being asked to expose their scars in front of a number of lawyers. "I shared that concern and promised a thorough investigation.
"Accordingly, I have asked Professor Greer to look at all the circumstances that caused the two women concerned such distress."
Mr Browne continued: "The viewing of scars is common practice here, often in criminal injuries claims, in response to requests from the applicant's legal representatives.
"I want a procedure in place for criminal injuries cases that will ensure applicants are treated with sensitivity, dignity and respect."
However, Mr Gallagher said: "We think the record on compensation and dealing with the victims is appalling.
"We are delighted that there is a recognition that there is a serious problem here. But the problem isn't just confined to two women who had the courage to come forward and share their experiences.
"The entire system is deficient and there is a need to reconsider compensation payments made, particularly to bereaved families."
Mr Gallagher said he would like more information about the work Professor Greer would be carrying out. He asked how many of the people affected would he be speaking to, whether his report was going to be made public, and if he was going to look at the widespread discontent.
Mr Browne also instructed that while the review is being conducted, lawyers for the Compensation Agency should not participate in any further viewing of scars or injuries.
By Marie Foy
A SPOKESMAN for the Omagh bomb victims to-day called on the whole compensation system in Northern Ireland to be re-examined.
Michael Gallagher was speaking after Victims Minister Des Browne announced a review of the practice of lawyers viewing the scars of applicants in criminal compensation cases.
The review follows concern after two Omagh bomb victims complained that the current procedure was humiliating and degrading.
Mr Browne has appointed Professor Desmond Greer from Queen's University's Faculty of Law to undertake the review.
The minister said: "There was widespread public concern following the revelation that two women victims of the Omagh bombing were greatly distressed at being asked to expose their scars in front of a number of lawyers. "I shared that concern and promised a thorough investigation.
"Accordingly, I have asked Professor Greer to look at all the circumstances that caused the two women concerned such distress."
Mr Browne continued: "The viewing of scars is common practice here, often in criminal injuries claims, in response to requests from the applicant's legal representatives.
"I want a procedure in place for criminal injuries cases that will ensure applicants are treated with sensitivity, dignity and respect."
However, Mr Gallagher said: "We think the record on compensation and dealing with the victims is appalling.
"We are delighted that there is a recognition that there is a serious problem here. But the problem isn't just confined to two women who had the courage to come forward and share their experiences.
"The entire system is deficient and there is a need to reconsider compensation payments made, particularly to bereaved families."
Mr Gallagher said he would like more information about the work Professor Greer would be carrying out. He asked how many of the people affected would he be speaking to, whether his report was going to be made public, and if he was going to look at the widespread discontent.
Mr Browne also instructed that while the review is being conducted, lawyers for the Compensation Agency should not participate in any further viewing of scars or injuries.
Further Information
Publisher: BELFAST TELEGRAPH
Ref: BT/0871
Published Date: 05-Sep-02
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