Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 657: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a victim (details supplied) of the Dublin bombings in 1974 is having problems in obtaining a medical expenses cheque; and if this attitude will cease immediately. [19818/05]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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I am assured that the applicant in question, like all other applicants, is treated in a caring, fair and equitable manner by the Remembrance Commission, which is the body responsible for administering the fund for the victims in this jurisdiction of the conflict in Northern Ireland.

I have also been informed that the person in question has been awarded an exceptional payment of €25,000, under section 9(c) of the amended scheme of acknowledgement, remembrance and assistance for victims in this jurisdiction of the conflict in Northern Ireland. This funding was awarded in recognition of the considerable debt which has been incurred as a result of the injuries received and which, in the opinion of the commission, the applicant would have had great difficulty in discharging.

Furthermore, I understand that the victim in question has received funding in respect of medical expenses incurred in 2004 and 2005. The commission has also approved funding for counselling sessions this year and is awaiting information on the number of further sessions that will be required prior to making a decision on whether to approve future funding.

The commission's secretariat is processing additional claims from the victim in question in respect of medical expenses which will be decided on in the near future. Since the commencement of this scheme in excess of €2,458,000 has been paid to victims, or to surviving family members, and to victim support groups which assist those trying to come to terms with injury or bereavement.