Catherine Connolly (Galway West, Independent)
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95. To ask the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth for an update on efforts to secure further contributions from the religious organisations associated with the mother and baby institutions payment scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [32406/25]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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Following receipt and publication of the Report from the Independent Negotiator, Ms Sheila Nunan, I made contact with each of the relevant religious organisations referred to in that Report.

The Deputy will be aware that of the eight organisations mentioned in the Report, only two made offers of a voluntary contribution to the Mother and Baby Homes Payment Scheme. My officials have initiated contact with representatives of those organisations to ensure that this matter moves forward without delay.

With regard to the offer of a voluntary financial contribution, I can confirm that my officials have been in contact with representatives of this organisation and that this matter is progressing.

Similarly, with regard to the offer from an organisation to transfer legal ownership of a property to the State, my officials have commenced contact with relevant parties in order to progress consideration on this matter.

With regard to those organisations who have not chosen to make a contribution to the Payment Scheme, I can confirm that I have written to them to express my disappointment at their approach and to express my belief that more could and should be done by them in terms of offering contributions. The purpose of my contact was also to invite each of them to reflect on the content of the Nunan Report and take that opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the Payment Scheme.

My Departmental officials have been- and remain- at all times available to engage with these organisations in the event that they are willing to take up this invitation and make a meaningful contribution.

Finally, my officials have also liaised with the Office of the Attorney General and will be engaging with them on identification and legal analysis of potential mechanisms which may be available to the State. This complex work will take some time to complete and will have to consider the broader impacts and implications of any potential mechanisms identified.