Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein)
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1064. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills the progress of the review of the report on the ex-gratia scheme for survivors of sexual abuse in day schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20180/21]

Maurice Quinlivan (Limerick City, Sinn Fein)
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1065. To ask the Minister for Education and Skills if the survivors of sexual abuse at a school (details supplied) will be included in the ex-gratia scheme for survivors of sexual abuse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20181/21]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 1064 and 1065 together.

As you are aware, the ex gratia scheme was established on foot of the specific circumstances arising from and in response to the judgment of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) relating to Louise O'Keeffe.

The Department undertook to review of the scheme in response to a determination by the Independent Assessor, Mr Justice Iarfhlaith O’Neill that one of the criteria for eligibility is incompatible with the ECtHR judgement.

The issues involved are highly sensitive and complex and require careful deliberation before proposals can be finalised and brought to Government. It is important to have a more complete awareness of the extent of the problem, the number of people who could potentially be involved, the legal implications of any course of action, and an accurate estimate of likely costs before a new or modified scheme is considered. The review of the ex-gratia scheme has yet to be concluded and no decisions are being made as to the eligibility or otherwise of individuals.

Officials from the Department of Education are closely engaged with officials from the Attorney General’s office to work through these complex matters.

Proposals will be brought to Government when this process has concluded.