Below are questions asked in the Oireachtas, relating to Caranua and other areas relevant to survivors
Residential Institutions Redress Scheme
Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Skills if the detailed proposal on staffing requirements as agreed by the board of Caranua on 26 July 2017 has been submitted to his Department; if so, if he will provide a copy of same; the steps and or decisions that have been taken further to the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): In order for the Board of Caranua to meet its responsibility to distribute the Fund as fairly and equitably as possible, and to prioritise those Survivors who have yet to receive any funding support, the Board decided that a business case should be made to my Department to request additional staff to provide a better service to Survivors. Caranua did submit a business case and the current position is that they have been asked to provide additional information to support their business case.
Residential Institutions Statutory Fund Board
Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Skills the amount that remains outstanding of the €110 million offered by the religious congregations following the publication of the Ryan report in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): To date, some €101 million, comprising post Ryan Report contributions from congregations, associated interest and cash from property disposals has been lodged to the special investment account opened by the National Treasury Management Agency pursuant to the Residential Institution Statutory Act, 2012.
Based on information provided by the congregations concerned I understand that the remaining cash contributions required to reach the pledged amount of €110 million will be received by the end of 2018.
Residential Institutions Statutory Fund Board
Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Skills the arrangements in place for the effective management of Caranua in view of the reported absence of the CEO; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): I would like to assure the Deputy that the absence of the CEO is governed by legislation. In accordance with the provisions of Section 14(9) of the Residential Institutions Statutory Fund Act 2012, the Board of Caranua has designated Ms Rachel Downes, Director of Services, as the person who will now perform the functions of the chief executive until the CEO recovers.
Residential Institutions Statutory Fund
Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Skills if persons engaging with Caranua will be required to present a public services card; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Minister for Education and Skills (Deputy Richard Bruton): Persons engaging with Caranua are not required to present a public services card and there are no plans for its introduction by Caranua.