Darren O'Rourke (Meath East, Sinn Fein)

I welcome the establishment of the commission of investigation into historical sex abuse in schools and the appointment of the chair, announced today. I have questions about the methodology, particularly as it relates to sampling and other areas. However, I ask about redress and pursuit of financial accountability. The Minister says that further work is being to examine the matter of financial redress, and how any future scheme could be funded. This is important to many survivors. It is viewed as a measure of accountability for those responsible for sexual abuse in schools and it is important to get it right. I totally agree with that. I brought amendments to the survivors Bill, which will go through the Dáil tomorrow, specifically to provide a time-framed six month options paper that the State would look at every option available to it to seek financial redress, particularly from religious institutions and orders.

Is there a detailed plan in place? What will the pursuit of financial options look like?

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