John Bruton
Question:54 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide details of the Government's plans to financially support a new fund to aid victims of paramilitary violence in Northern Ireland. [12030/98]
Vol. 491 No. 5
54 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide details of the Government's plans to financially support a new fund to aid victims of paramilitary violence in Northern Ireland. [12030/98]
The Government is very much aware of the suffering endured by the victims of violence arising from the conflict in Northern Ireland. The British-Irish Agreement dedicates a section to these victims of violence. It is based on recognition of the concerns and difficulties facing victims of violence and their families, as well as of the fact that for many their suffering remains a painful and living reality today. The Agreement acknowledges that the provision of services which are supportive and sensitive to the needs of victims will be a critical element in the process of reconciliation and recognises the need for the allocation of sufficient resources to this end.