Govt extends compensation scheme for victims of Troubles

A Government fund set up to help victims of the Troubles has been given an extra €2m to run for another year.

The Remembrance Commission was set up in October 2003 to help people in the Republic who suffered as a result of conflict in Northern Ireland.

Its work was due to end last October after it handed out almost €5.2m.

But Tánaiste and Justice Minister Michael McDowell said he asked for Government approval to extend the scheme to ensure all victims got the help they needed.

“I believe that there are a number of victims who have yet to make applications for assistance,” he said.

“I am also mindful that there are applicants who will require ongoing medical assistance to deal with injuries they received in an incident related to the conflict.

“As a result of these considerations, I decided to seek Government approval for the extension of the terms of the Commission.”

Following a publicity campaign earlier this year as the Commission neared the end of its work, a further 70 applications for assistance were made. They have yet to be assessed.

The Tanaiste Mr McDowell added: “While decisions have been made on most of these, there are a number which require further detailed consideration.

“In addition, the Commission has advised me that applications have been made for assistance to erect memorials to commemorate victims, but that it would not be possible to make decisions on the applications during the Commission’s original term.”

It will continue its work until next October and the Government will also consider its long-term future and how outstanding tasks would be met.