Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senators for facilitating this debate and for the responses to the Bill. I restate that the Government is committed to complying with all of the recommendations made by the Ombudsman in November 2017. As I have already stated, officials in my Department continue to liaise on a regular basis on the implementation of these recommendations. I met the Ombudsman two weeks ago and he acknowledged the progress that has been made to date. Women who worked in the institutions covered by the redress scheme while residing in certain adjoining institutions are already making applications and receiving lump sums under the scheme through the November 2018 addendum.

This Bill, short as it is, will expand the scope of the 2015 Act to deal with health benefits for these women. The amending Bill will ensure these women benefit from the same medical benefits as those awarded redress under the original interpretation of the Magdalen redress scheme.

I listened carefully to the points raised by Senator Kelleher, many of which relate to women in these schemes. I would be happy to examine the points as raised. Some of the issues raised do not fall within this legislation, nor within the remit of my Department, but I would be happy to convey the Senator's concerns to my colleague, the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Zappone.

I acknowledge again that the Joint Committee on Justice and Equality agreed to waive pre-legislative scrutiny. In that regard and in commending the Bill to the House, I ask that appropriate arrangements be made for Committee Stage and I am happy to engage with Senators Ó Donnghaile, Clifford-Lee and any other Senators who may wish to participate in the debate at that point.