Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 22 October 2019
352. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Health if recommendations from a working group convened by his Department to develop specific proposals for a package of health and well-being supports for former residents of mother and baby homes were included in budget 2020; if so, the supports in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43248/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy colleague, the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, published the recommendations of the First Report of the Collaborative Forum of Former Residents of Mother and Baby Homes on 16 April, 2019. The Report contains 43 recommendations in total, including 21 health and well-being recommendations.
My Department subsequently established an Interdepartmental Working Group to undertake an assessment of the report's health and well-being related recommendations and to develop proposals for a package of health and well-being supports.
The Working Group, which comprises representation from this Department, the Department of Children and Youth Affairs and the Health Service Executive, has met seven times and is currently finalising their report. Once finalised, the financial requirement associated with the relevant health and well-being supports identified will be made available from the overall level of funding allocated to the health service in 2020.
