Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

As discussed earlier this week, we know there are survivors who are capable of obtaining the benefits to which they are entitled. I thank the Minister for taking the suggestion I made about a comprehensive and simple-to-understand guide for the ladies. However, we know there are ladies who lack the necessary mental capacity, because they have been in an institution and have been institutionalised or because they had a mental health issue before they went in. How many women are we talking about in this particular situation? These are women who need extra help. I acknowledge the work of the national advocacy service and the trained personnel which are available. It is good that the Minister is going to look at this aspect further.

However, there are women who are in a very difficult situation and who are extremely vulnerable. These women have been taken advantage of in so many ways during their lives. With these benefits accruing to them, the hope is that their remaining years, however many they may have, will be much better and that a better quality of life is ensured.

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