Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

74. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to engage with the Mother and Baby Home Collaborative Forum; and her further plans for the next phase, for example, the appointment of a new chair. [29962/19]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

Following the receipt of the Collaborative Forum's first report, I signalled the opportunity to take some time to reflect upon the learning from the process to date.  In this way the mandate of the Forum can be refined to further enhance the State's engagement with former residents. The Forum itself also suggested a revisiting of these matters.

Delivering its first report within 6 months was a significant achievement and reflected the strong commitment and dedication of Forum members to this task.  It was understandable therefore that the former Chair and a small number of members signalled their intention to step down when the first report had been finalised and they have subsequently done so. I am actively considering a suitable appointment to these current vacancies to ensure the continuity of the process. 

I am currently examining how best to conduct a focused interim evaluation which involves the Forum members and considers important issues relating to the Forum's composition and mandate. 

I plan to engage directly with Forum members on the future of the Forum in the coming weeks. Further response on this will be available following my engagement with Forum members.