Departmental Correspondence.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 July 2006

Tuesday, 4 July 2006

Questions (216)

Mary Upton

Question:

229 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to a letter dated 21 December 2000 from a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; the reason for the delay in replying to the letter; if it is proposed to reply; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26182/06]

Written answers

Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children (Ms Harney)

The Deputy refers to a letter received in this Department on 21st December 2000 and replied to the same day. The writer was advised that the letter would be brought to the attention of the Minister. As the Deputy is aware, this Government has established the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse which has three primary functions: to listen to victims of childhood abuse who want to recount their experiences to a sympathetic forum; to fully investigate all allegations of abuse made to it, except where the victim does not wish for an investigation; and to publish a report on its findings to the general public.

The Commission provides the proper forum for many of the issues raised.