Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 3 Dec 2002

Vol. 558 No. 4

Written Answers. - Compensation Payments.

Joan Burton

Question:

241 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the time frame within which the institutional redress board will make payments, in view of the fact that some of those waiting for redress for abuse suffered while in Irish institutions are terminally ill and others have already died; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24382/02]

Minister for Education and Science (Mr. N. Dempsey)

The Residential Institutions Redress Act, 2002, provides for the establishment of the Residential Institutions Redress Board.

The board has commenced an advertising campaign informing possible applicants that application forms and a guide to the application process are now available from their offices in Clonskeagh. Following receipt of completed applications and supporting documentation it will move as soon as possible to the provision of awards.

The board has assured me that priority will be given to applications received from persons of advanced age or poor health. Section 9 of the Residential Institutions Redress Act, 2002, provides for making an application by the children or spouse of a possible applicant who has died since the Taoiseach's apology in May 1999.