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Departmental Schemes

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 19 November 2019

Tuesday, 19 November 2019

Questions (190)

Paul Murphy

Question:

190. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will consider removing the ex-gratia scheme implemented in view of the ruling in the O'Keeffe case in 2014 which continues to prevent victims of sexual abuse receiving payments from the State. [47434/19]

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Written answers

The ex gratia scheme was established on foot of the specific circumstances arising from and in response to the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) relating to Louise O'Keeffe. Ireland submits biannual Action Plans to the relevant Committee of Ministers which is responsible for supervising the implementation of the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights.

The ex gratia scheme is not the sole vehicle through which compensation for sexual abuse in day schools has been paid out. Between 2005 and 2018, settlements involving the payment of compensation by the State to victims of day school child sexual abuse have been made in relation to 22 claimants.

Mr. Justice Iarfhlaith O'Neill, acting as an Independent Assessor to the Scheme was asked to review cases which had been submitted to him for consideration. On the foot of his determinations, payments are being made to a number of victims of child sexual abuse in day schools. The current position is that sixteen offers of payment have been made and, to date, eight have been accepted. Further payments will be made upon acceptance of the remaining offers.

In the aftermath of the Independent Assessor's determinations my Department committed to reviewing the ex gratia scheme, in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General.

I am sure the Deputy will understand the complexity and sensitivity of the issues involved that require very careful deliberation before proposals can be finalised and brought to Government.

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