strategy statement03 - 05

Performance Indicator: Degree of implementation of MIAB recommendations.

Establish the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) on an

interim basis, in parallel with preparation of the necessary legislation to put the PIAB on a statutory footing;

Performance Indicator: PIAB established on statutory basis by end 2003.

In parallel with, and complementary to, the reform

programme, undertake a study of the insurance sector in Ireland in conjunction with the Competition Authority.

Performance Indicator: Study published early 2004.

Proactively pursue cost efficient resolution of all remaining

issues relating to the cessation of Departmental involvement in export credit insurance schemes.

Performance Indicator: Resolution of outstanding issues.

Competition and Consumers

Ensure that the Competition Authority can fulfil its mission to

ensure increased competition throughout the economy;

Performance Indicator: Adequacy of Authority’s human and legislative resources.

Critically analyse regulatory provisions that restrict

competition, through the Pharmacy Review Group, the Liquor Licensing Commission, and other appropriate means, with a view to eliminating unwarranted constraints on competition;

Performance Indicator: Elimination of regulatory provisions identified as constituting unwarranted constraints on competition.

Undertake a comprehensive review of consumer legislation

with a view to simplification and codification of consumer rights;

Performance Indicators: Discussion document to be drafted by end-2003. General Scheme of consolidating legislation to be prepared within the period to which this Statement relates.

Ensure that consumers are protected from malpractice and

have the information necessary to exploit the opportunities available in competitive markets;

Performance Indicator: Level of compliance with consumer protection legislation.

Assist competition and consumer protection by eliminating

technical barriers to trade through the EU standards programme;

Performance Indicator: Number of EU Directives implemented.

Companies

Support the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement

and the Companies Registration Office in ensuring honest and effective corporate governance;

Performance Indicator: Adequacy of human, legislative and other resources.