Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)
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645. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 400 of 16 June 2020, if the National Advocacy Service has been contacted by her officials to assist residents of a nursing home (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14444/20]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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As the Deputy is aware, having reviewed the records held by the Restorative Justice Implementation Unit, we have confirmed that there were a number of applicants who were resident in St. Margaret’s nursing home, Donnybrook and all of these residents were linked to the National Advocacy Service when applying to the ex-gratia scheme. However, it is understood that this institution has now closed, and that the residents transferred to other nursing homes, which might include the nursing home mentioned by the Deputy. We do not have any records of applicants to the ex-gratia scheme residing at this location.

In line with the commitment given in response to your previous question (PQ no. 400 16 June 2020) I can confirm that my officials made contact with both the nursing home concerned, and with the National Advocacy Service. Both organisations been appraised of the potential that there may be former residents of Magdalen institutions now residing in this nursing home, and that the Department is keen to ensure that all such residents are provided with access to appropriate advocates to ensure their best interests are represented over the period ahead. I understand that the National Advocacy Service also intends to liaise directly with the nursing home concerned, and officials of my Department remain available to provide any further assistance necessary in relation to this matter.