Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 29 Jan 2003

Vol. 560 No. 1

Written Answers. - Institutional Abuse.

Bernard Allen

Question:

735 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason an application for funding by the Irish Survivors of Institutional Abuse International has been refused; and if he will give an explanation as to how the matter is not within his Department's remit. [2061/03]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. B. Lenihan)

The group concerned was requested to provide a detailed submission in relation to the funding required which was received on 29 October 2002. Immediate consideration was given to the request and additional information was requested on 4 November 2002. The additional information was supplied on 28 November 2002. Further consideration was given to the request and on 5 December 2002, it was declined as it was not considered to fall within the remit of my Department.

The group was informed that my Department funds counselling services for those who as chil dren suffered abuse in a residential setting and does not fund the provision of information, as requested by the group concerned. Funding for the provision of information falls within the remit of the Department of Education and Science. On 5 December 2002, my Department suggested to the group concerned that they should make an application for funding to the Department of Education and Science.

Questions Nos. 736 to 738, inclusive, answered with Question No. 595.