Compensation Schemes

Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 November 2019

Thursday, 14 November 2019

Ceisteanna (85)

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

85. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Skills the status of the ex gratia scheme of compensation for victims of child sexual abuse in day schools; the number of applications made; the number of awards made; the average value of amount awarded; the funding allocation made to the scheme for this purpose; if he is satisfied with the adequacy of the terms of the scheme to meet the needs of victims; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47048/19]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Education and Skills

Since the ex gratia scheme was established in July 2015, a total of 50 applications were received.

Payments are being made to a number of victims of child sexual abuse in day schools on foot of the assessments made by the Independent Assessor to the ex gratia scheme, Mr. Justice Iarfhlaith O'Neill. 

The current position is that sixteen offers of payment of €84,000 have been made and eight have been accepted.  

In response to the assessor's determinations my Department, in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General, is examining the ex gratia scheme.

The review is progressing but is not yet complete.