Niall Collins (Limerick, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

1190. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills her views regarding the applications made by third parties on behalf of persons seeking to access the Caranua Scheme, where there is an accusation of fraud; the fraud prevention measures in place to ensure that the documents are signed by the actual persons seeking access to the Scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [30429/15]

Jan O'Sullivan (Limerick City, Labour)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Caranua, the Residential Institutions Statutory Fund Board, is an independent statutory body established pursuant to the Residential Institutions Statutory Fund Act 2012 to oversee the use of the cash contributions of up to €110 million, pledged by the religious congregations, to support the needs of survivors of institutional child abuse.

Section 3 of the 2012 Act allows for a former resident to nominate a person to submit an application on his or her behalf. Applicants who wish to avail of this facility fill in and sign a 'Nominated Person' form and I understand that it is Caranua's practice to speak with the applicant directly before interacting with the 'Nominated Person'. Of the 3,423 applications received to-date by Caranua, 172 applicants (5%) are using a Nominated Person.

I am advised that Caranua is aware of the potential for fraud in relation to the Nominated Persons facility and other aspects of its application process, and that it has in place appropriate operating procedures in relation to the administration of applications.

If the Deputy is aware of suspected fraudulent activity, I would ask him to contact Caranua directly so that the organisation can investigate this matter and take appropriate action.