The Parliament is poised to increase the compensation for wrongful death cases, a decision that has garnered broad support but sparked debate over the proposed figures.
In a recent session of the House Legal Affairs Committee, a legislative proposal tabled by five MPs suggested a substantial hike in the compensation amount from the current €17,000 to €100,000.
This proposed increase, intended to cover emotional distress damages, is seen by many as a necessary update to the outdated figures.
However, while the consensus leans towards a rise in compensation, the magnitude of the proposed increase has stirred controversy.
Representatives from the Ministry of Justice, the Law Office, and the Insurance Companies Supervisory Authority have all voiced concerns, advocating for a more proportional adjustment.
The fear expressed by some is that such a steep increase could inadvertently lead to higher insurance premiums, a consequence the Committee is keen to avoid.
The current legislation mandates compensation for deaths resulting from civil wrongs, including workplace accidents, fatal mishaps, or other unfortunate incidents, with the liable party compensating the deceased’s relatives for moral damages.
This compensation is in addition to specific awards given to dependents for their loss, determined by the court.
The proposal, put forward by MPs Zacharias Koulias, Nicos Georgiou, Andreas Pashiourtides, Panicos Leonidou, and Kostis Efstathiou, is under scrutiny.
The Committee has called for comparative data from the Ministry of Justice on compensation standards across the EU, emphasising the importance of a balanced approach that doesn’t unfairly impact insurance premiums.
