Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 16 November 2021
425. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the status of, and position regarding, the mother and baby homes redress scheme; if an update will be provided on his engagement with survivor groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [56106/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs part of its response to the Final Report of the Commission of Investigation, the Government committed to establishing a Restorative Recognition Scheme for survivors of Mother and Baby and County Home Institutions. This Scheme will include a financial payment and a form of enhanced medical card.
An Interdepartmental Group (IDG) was set up to develop detailed proposals for the Scheme. The work of the IDG was guided by a human rights focus and informed by consultation with survivors and survivor groups.
I intend to bring proposals on the Scheme to Cabinet this week. Once proposals for the Scheme are approved by Government, I will publish them immediately. My Department will also continue with the significant work necessary and already in progress to establish this Scheme and make it available for applications as soon as possible in 2022.
