Financial shortfall shows urgency of putting Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal on a statutory footing – Matt Carthy TD

Sinn Féin spokesperson on Justice, Matt Carthy TD, has called on Minister Jim O’Callaghan to respond to warnings that the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme was due to be exhausted at the end of last month.

Deputy Carthy called for the Minister to bring forward the legislation to put the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal on a Statuary funding as a matter of urgency.

Teachta Carthy said:

“The briefing document which the Minister received upon taking office highlighted the fact that the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme was due to be exhausted by the end of last month with claims exceeding money available.

“This is deeply concerning given this scheme is vital for supporting victims of crime including those who have experienced life changing injuries. The Minister must give the Dáil an update on this situation and if additional funds will be made available for this scheme.

“The fact that this fund is running out of money so early in the year highlights a wider problem and the need for the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal to be put on a statutory footing.

“Victims of serious crime have demanded action on this and for bureaucratic delays, lack of transparency, and inadequate recognition of victims’ suffering to end.

“The Minister must bring forward the Criminal Injuries Compensation bill which is on the legislative schedule as a matter of urgency.”