Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 7 September 2018
1178. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if evidence in a recent court case as far back as 2001 regarding patients of St. Patrick's Guild that illegal registration had been made for children is now being accepted; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [36981/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is not clear what court case the Deputy is referring to, but I am assuming that the reference is to a recent High Court case relating to St Patrick's Guild. This case was settled and no judgement issued. In the absence of a judgement the issue of accepting evidence does not arise.
The State has a responsibility to reach a high level of certainty that there is in fact evidence that births were illegally registered before it contacts the individuals concerned. This threshold was reached in the 126 cases which Tusla are dealing with. I am very aware of the complexity of issues that may arise for individuals receiving this life-changing information and I intend to address these issues as they arise.
