Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 190: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of finance at the disposal of the Remembrance Commission fund; the amount given to victims; the amount remaining; and if he will ensure that a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7 is granted adequate payment to cover their medical costs over the next few years. [6680/07]

Michael McDowell (Dublin South East, Progressive Democrats)
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The Scheme of Acknowledgement, Remembrance and Assistance to Victims in this Jurisdiction of the Conflict in Northern Ireland is administered by the Remembrance Commission. As the Deputy may be aware I obtained Government approval to extend the term of Office of the Remembrance Commission until 31 October 2007. The Government has allocated up to €2 million to the Commission for 2007.

Up to 31 December 2006 a total of €5.45 million has been spent by the Commission, of which €4.92 million has been disbursed in grants to victims and their families, victims' groups and funding for memorials. All applications for payments are assessed in accordance with the criteria set out in the Scheme. The person referred to by the Deputy has received payments for medical expenses incurred to date and has, in addition, received the exceptional payment for medical expenses provided for under the Scheme.

I have been informed that the Commission will continue to meet this person's medical expenses, in so far as they relate to the injuries received in the conflict, as they arise under the terms of the Scheme and will sympathetically consider all applications from him.