Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Independent)

I do not disagree with that. When the hospital was acquired by the State in the mid-1990s for €5.5 million, I believe, a sum of €2 million was set aside for possible claims, including in this area. That is being administered on behalf of the Medical Missionaries of May by Arthur Cox, solicitors. To date no claim has been made on that €2 million, so I am conscious that this resource is there as well. I agree that psychological and other supports are necessary for the victims. In fairness, many of them have been receiving counselling over many years. I have met some of them and am aware of the vulnerability of many of the individuals concerned. Certainly, all such supports will be forthcoming.

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