Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 January 2005
789 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if all victims of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings of 1972, 1973 and 1974 will be treated in a caring and flexible manner in relation to compensation and other support. [1965/05]
View answerAs I have stated on many occasions, the bombings which took place in Dublin and Monaghan on Friday, 17 May 1974 were among the most tragic occurrences in the history of this island. Once again, I would like to express my deepest sympathies to those injured, their families and the families of those killed.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government has established the Remembrance Commission and fund. The commission administers the fund under the terms of the Scheme of Acknowledgement, Remembrance and Assistance for Victims in this Jurisdiction of the Conflict in Northern Ireland. The fund has a total budget of €9 million over three years. The scheme makes assistance available to persons injured, or to survivors of persons fatally injured, since 1969, as a direct result of the conflict in Northern Ireland, where the injury or death occurred in this jurisdiction or where the victim was normally resident in this jurisdiction at the time of their injury or death.
Survivors of the Dublin and Monaghan bombings are eligible to apply for assistance under this scheme. I am confident that all applicants are treated in a caring, fair and equitable manner. I have been advised that since the commencement of the scheme in excess of €450,000 has been paid to victims or surviving family members of these bombings. Furthermore, in 2004, €226,650 in funding was made available to victim support groups to assist those trying to come to terms with their loss and or bereavement. A donation of €1.25 million has also been paid to the Northern Ireland memorial fund.
At all times, my officials ensure that all persons are treated in a caring and respectful manner. I am assured that all applicants for assistance from the remembrance fund are being given the maximum support, assistance and flexibility, within the confines of the above-named scheme, and are being treated with all due respect, sensitivity and care.
