Dáil Éireann Debate, Friday - 3 December 2021
32. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth his plans to prioritise supports for older and vulnerable survivors within the mother and baby Institutions' payment scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [59458/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme will provide financial payments and an enhanced medical card to defined groups in acknowledgement of suffering experienced while resident in a Mother and Baby or County Home Institution.
I fully appreciate the urgency in respect of older and vulnerable survivors who will be seeking to avail of this Scheme. I have given my commitment that I will work hard to get this scheme available to people as soon as possible and my Department is currently engaged in the significant work necessary to do this, including drafting the required legislation. I have confirmed with my Cabinet colleagues that I intend to seek priority drafting of the Bill when bringing the General Scheme to Government for approval.
Once the scheme is established, it is very much the intention that elderly survivors and potentially other vulnerable people will be prioritised.
