Vol. 572 No. 1
138 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will expand the educational options for survivors of child abuse to provide financial support to individuals who wish to pursue courses offered in community or mainstream educational settings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22550/03]
Under the terms of the indemnity agreement between the State and CORI which was signed on the 5 June 2002, there is provision for an education fund of €12.7 million to be established to assist former residents of institutions and their families in accessing educational programmes. I can confirm that €12.7 million of the €41.14 million cash contribution from the congregations has been set aside for this purpose. Furthermore, I can confirm that a scheme of grant assistance to former residents and their families, which is being funded from this €12.7 million has been put in place. Application forms together with the criteria for eligibility are available from the NOVA office and the scheme was advertised in the print media recently. Payment of grants to applicants that qualify under the terms of the scheme are presently being made by the City of Dublin VEC to cover the cost of college fees and the cost of books and materials.
A committee has been established to oversee the grant scheme. The committee comprises representatives from the four victim support groups affiliated to NOVA, a representative from the further education section of my Department and the adult education officer at the City of Dublin VEC. The development officer for the outreach services in Britain was co-opted onto the committee recently.
The committee intends to conduct a review of the scheme in early 2004 based on the experience of the scheme and views expressed by interested parties. Should the Deputy wish to make a submission to the committee in relation to expanding the educational options for which financial support is provided, I am certain that any such submission would be considered by the committee. Any such submission could be made to the NOVA office at 19, Upper Ormond Quay, Dublin 7.
