Plea on time limit for taking negligence cases

A GROUP representing patients injured within the healthcare system wants the justice minister to maintain the time limit for taking legal action in cases of medical negligence.

The new Civil Liability and Courts Bill 2004, due to go before the Senate soon, provides for the reduction of the limitation period for personal injuries actions from three years to one year.

The bill is aimed at tackling the compensation culture and reducing insurance costs. When it was first published, Justice Minister Michael McDowell said the change "is intended to ensure claims are brought forward without undue delay." However, Patient Focus has written both to Mr