Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 February 2014
550. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of applications received, pay-outs issued and medical benefits secured to survivors of the Magdalen laundries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9597/14]
View answer705 applications have been received to date. 320 letters of formal offer have issued. So far, 225 of the applicants have accepted the formal offer and 196 payments have issued at a cost of €7 million.
Legislation is required in order to implement Judge Quirke's recommendation with regard to the provision of medical services to the women who were admitted to and worked in the relevant institutions. While this is a health issue, it has been agreed that my Department would coordinate legislation to implement Judge Quirke's recommendations. The necessary legislation is included on the priority list of the Government Legislation Programme for the Spring/Summer 2014. Details of exactly what services will be provided is being determined by the Department of Health. My officials are working with that Department in finalising the drafting of the necessary legislative provisions as quickly as possible.
