Vol. 529 No. 3
22 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will make a statement on his intentions in relation to victims of abuse who were pupils in day schools in respect of the proposed compensation tribunal for victims of institutional child abuse; and if all of those victims covered by the Commission of Inquiry into Child Abuse will also be included in the compensation tribunal. [2781/01]
74 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science when the body to award compensation to people who suffered abuse in institutions announced on 3 October 2000 will be set up; his views on whether there is an element of urgency involved in the light of the advanced age of many of those who were abused; and the proposals he has for immediate action in this regard. [1425/01]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 22 and 74 together.
The decision of 3 October 2000 referred to by the Deputy, was a decision in principle to establish a compensation scheme for certain survivors of abuse. It was always expected that the preparation of detailed provisions for the scheme would take some time. This work is, however, being undertaken as a matter of priority by my Department, not least, as the Deputy points out, considering the age of many of those concerned. However, this is an area of considerable complexity, involving as it does a range of legal and non-legal issues, and more importantly, the Government's desire to ensure that any compensation scheme will be effective in meeting the needs of survivors. Officials of my Department, and of the Attorney General's office are at present preparing proposals, which take account of consultations with the interested parties. I intend to present detailed proposals for the establishment of a compensation body to Government for their approval within the next few weeks.
