Magdalen Laundries

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 March 2014

Tuesday, 25 March 2014

Questions (805)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

805. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will clarify figures as presented in Dáil Éireann in 2013 to be paid to the Magdalen fund which range between €34.5 million to €58 million; the reason the figure set aside to pay for the ex gratia scheme has fallen to €23 million, in view a person (details supplied) confirming that the number of applicants, 724 to date, is broadly in line with expectations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14144/14]

Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The overall total estimated cost associated with the establishment of the Restorative Justice Scheme is €34.5m to €58m based on an estimate of 555 to 1000 applicants applying to the scheme. It includes the cost of the lump sum payments, the weekly State payments, the Medical Card, the establishment of a Dedicated Unit to administer the scheme, payment to the Irish Women Survivors Support Network (IWSSN) and provision of legal advice.

In the current year, the cost of the scheme as regards the Justice Vote is expected to be in the region of €23m. This takes account of the lump sum payments, weekly instalment payments for those in receipt of a lump sum in excess of €50,000, payments to solicitors who advise applicants before signing the waiver and staff administration staff costs. It does not include payments to be made in 2015 and subsequent years nor does it include payments under the Scheme that will fall to other Votes such as pensions and medical costs.