Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 24 February 2021
618. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the way in which illegally adopted persons will be considered for inclusion in any redress scheme to prevent further discrimination against this group further to the report of the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9983/21]
View answerThe Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes has made clear recommendations in relation to redress on the basis of its extensive statutory investigations. Notably, the Commission recognises that redress can be financial or in the form of enhanced services. In the context of comparable previous redress arrangements, the Commission identifies a number of specific groups for whom it recommends redress might be considered.
The Government has made a very significant and early commitment to accept these recommendations and design a bespoke Restorative Recognition Scheme. I have now established an Interdepartmental Group on Restorative Recognition (IDG). Crucially, the Government agreed that the IDG would not be limited in examining solely the three criteria put forward by the Report as grounds for restorative recognition. The IDG held its first meeting on the 4 February and has been tasked with reporting back to me by the end of April to enable specific proposals to be brought to Government.
It has been asked to develop detailed proposals for a restorative recognition scheme. Its work must take account of the specific groups identified by the Commission but is not limited to those groups. Its work will be underpinned by a human rights focus and informed by strong stakeholder consultation and an understanding of lessons learned from the operation of previous schemes.
It is intended that the scheme will be designed as quickly as possible in 2021.
This is a hugely important process for all connected to these institutions and I will be working with colleagues and survivors to advance these matters as a priority.
