Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

Based on what I said a few moments ago and what I said when the scheme was announced, I have always been clear that I and the Government recognise that no amount of money can make up for what happened to women and children in these institutions. I think I have been clear on that. We understand that a payment scheme and the range of actions we are taking cannot make up for the trauma that was experienced in these institutions. However, it is a recognition of what happened. It is an attempt to provide some element of support to survivors, be they mothers or children, of these institutions. It is the State coming in behind the apology the Taoiseach made in January of this year. That is what we are seeking to do in providing this broad payment scheme that will encompass 34,000 survivors of these institutions.

In my further response I will speak about the payment rates.

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