Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

There are survivor groups that did not express themselves in the way he suggests at those meetings. There were others that did. My job was to outline in what way we were going to be in a position to implement those areas of the motion addressed here in the House. There may well be areas of the motion that some survivor groups would rather see worded or dealt with differently but ultimately, the situation is that the taxpayers of the country have made provision for €1.36 billion in redress in regard to these appalling issues that arose for many people. We believe that a 50:50 split in terms of the contribution to be made by the congregations and the State is an objective that should be achieved. We have outlined our position. Therefore, in respect of those assets that are being provided, the need for the State to be accorded that 50:50 split is based on the fact that we have taken on the 100% monetary liability in terms of the redress board at the moment, less the moneys involved in the 2002 indemnity scheme and the subsequent discussions we had with them following the Ryan report on the need for them to make a much larger contribution. That is now in the process of being established and worked through.

That being the case, the trust fund to deal with the education, health or welfare issues that would arise for survivors becomes the mechanism by which we deal with the continuing needs of individuals who have obtained their redress through the redress board. Continuing issues that arise for groups or individuals come through the trust fund mechanism. That is the message that was conveyed by me on behalf of the Government, taking into account all of the considerations that needed to be taken into account. That is where things stand. The question of re-opening the redress issue did not arise. As far is the Government was concerned, we have established the means by which we can continue to provide support and assistance, namely, through a trust fund mechanism.

In regard to the question on civil partnership, that issue has not been raised formally through the structured dialogue with me. I have made the point in regard to it that everyone in this democracy is entitled to give his or her point of view but the Government has brought forward this legislation for the purpose of dealing with matters that arise. The Civil Partnership Bill has, we believe, been very carefully prepared with clear legal advice about the requirements of the Constitution. Addressing the position of those who will seek to benefit from the terms of the Bill should not be seen as detracting from the importance of marriage or the family or, in particular, their constitutional position. While others are entitled to take a different view, it will be for the Members of the Oireachtas to determine the law of the land following full reflection and debate. The Government is committed to its enactment.

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