Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour) | Oireachtas source

I assure Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan that we will ensure there will be no delays. If she wishes to provide details of particular cases to me, the Taoiseach or the Minister for Justice and Equality, we would be very happy to follow up on them.

One of the issues which arose as a result of this entire episode is the retention of records. The Government agreed that the Minister for Education and Skills would bring forward legislative proposals to allow for the retention of records by the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse and all of the issues relating to the Magdalen laundries, etc. We are concerned about the fact that the destruction of any of those records would represent a significant loss. The Minister for Education and Skills has been working on this matter, which the Cabinet discussed earlier in the week. Legislation is being prepared to ensure that the relevant records will be protected.

I completely accept that it would be desirable to ensure that the commitments made in respect of payments and the provision of health care and supports to survivors of Magdalen laundries are followed up on. I acknowledge the Deputy's assertion to the effect that questions have arisen with regard to particular periods and what is and is not contemplated for consideration. We would certainly be happy to investigate any matters in respect of which the Deputy can provide details.

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