Mother and Baby Homes

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 28 March 2023

Tuesday, 28 March 2023

Ceisteanna (512)

James Lawless

Ceist:

512. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will examine a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14937/23]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth

The Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme will provide financial payments and an enhanced medical card to survivors and former residents of Mother and Baby and County Home Institutions in recognition of time spent in the institution, harsh conditions, emotional abuse and all other forms of mistreatment, stigma and trauma experienced while resident in a Mother and Baby or County Home Institution. A refund of disability allowance is a matter for the Department of Social Protection and is not within the scope of this Scheme.

The Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme Bill has been published and is currently making its way through the Houses. The Scheme will open as soon as possible in 2023 once the legislation is passed and administrative framework is in place.