Mother And Baby Payments Vote

Baby love…?

atest press release from Cllr Stephen Stokes, issued on Thursday, February 23rd 2023…

The Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme Bill 2022 was voted on in the Dáil on Wednesday, February 22nd.

The vote was passed by 73 votes to 62, and now moves to the Seanad for consideration.

Cllr Stephen Stokes has expressed concern. “The current scheme excludes about 24,000 survivors, some of whom may be from or living in Wicklow. That means that around 40% of the people affected could be excluded by the 6-month arbitrary cut off time.

“I have written to Minister Roderick O’Gorman to urge a review of the threshold. My message is that many good people have had a terrible experience. Let us be a little more flexible to show compassion.”

Cllr Stephen Stokes has specially highlighted the 6 month cut off period, adding, “It seems bizarre and unfair. Many survivors, public representatives and thousands of regular people have raised this for some time, including by way of online petitions. It is still a mystery as to why 6 months has been chosen. I would also be concerned that this may lead to future legal challenges.”

Cllr Stephen Stokes is also urging decisive action when it comes to redress schemes.

“We must ensure accountability. People also deserve transparency in decision making.”