Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 May 2018
384. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of survivors who have given evidence to the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes to date; the number who were referred to counselling services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18881/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraWith regard to the statutory Commission of Investigation (Mother and Baby Homes and certain related Matters), it is firstly important to recognise that the Commission is independent in the conduct of its investigations.
I am conscious that revisiting difficult personal experiences when giving testimony to a Commission would be distressing for those involved. I know that some people may need to access various supports around this time and I have previously advised any persons so affected to consider contacting the Health Service Executive National Counselling Service.
With regard to the Commission of Investigation, it is important to recognise that the statutory Commission is independent in the conduct of its investigations. Therefore, the individual arrangements with witnesses are a matter for the Commission and I have no role in this regard.
I am aware that the Commission does ask former residents attending as witnesses if they have access to supports and whether they would like information on available services. I understand that, if they so wish, this information is provided by the Commission but it does not make referrals to these services.
In relation to the number of former residents who have given evidence to the Commission, I do not have this information for the reasons outlined above. However, the Commission's Third Interim Report, which I have published, states that as of September 2017, the confidential committee had met 346 former residents or others with connections to the institutions under investigation, and expected to engage with a further 200 persons who had applied to meet the committee.
