Frequently Asked Questions

Who is entitled to make a claim?
Abuse is defined in the Act as ‘any sexual, physical, emotional abuse or neglect’ that causes a child to suffer whilst in residential care. In many cases, people are entitled to claim for a number of types of abuse that they may have suffered whilst in care.

In the case where someone in your family who was abused has died after May 11 th 1999 there is a provision for the family of the deceased to submit a claim.

How do I know if I can claim for abuse that I suffered?
If you have been, as a child, abused in any manner whilst in care, it is likely that you can claim compensation for this abuse if the institution you were in comes under the responsibility of the Redress Board. Click here for more information.

I was abused as a child many years ago. How can I show that I was abused after so much time has elapsed?
The Redress Board are aware that many people were abused a long time ago. The Redress Board will also look at the aftermath such as depression, anxiety, poor educational prospects and any other relevant consequence of your time in residential care.

How can I make a claim before the Board, and how much will it cost?
We will assist you complete the application form, prepare a statement and lodge your application with the Redress Board.

It should be noted that the vast majority of applications are settled without the necessity of a Board hearing.

The Board cover the Legal Fees.

How much will I receive in compensation?
The amount awarded to each applicant varies considerably. The Board will look at the following factors in deciding how to compensate an individual:

the type of types of abuse suffered
the duration of the abuse
the consequences of the abuse such as permanent physical, emotional injury, scarring, loss of education opportunities as well as loss of career and any other relevant factor.

How long does each application take?
Once all the relevant information is submitted to the Redress Board all parties will use their best endeavours to process the applications quickly as possible. In the event that an applicant is seriously ill or over the age of 70 these applications are given priority.

I am very ashamed of what happened to me and I am afraid that everyone will know my business. Do I have to appear in public?
No. All dealings of the Residential Institutions Redress Board are private and behind closed doors. No one will find out your business and you will not have to appear in public and the amount that you receive shall be entirely confidential.

I am very ashamed about the abuse that occurred so long ago. I do not think that the Redress Board will believe me.
Thousands of people have had similar experiences in various institutions. The Redress Board is well aware of all the types of abuse that occurred and will make every attempt to deal with each application in a sympathetic manner.

When should I apply?
The closing date is 15 th December 2005, so given the amount of information necessary to be obtained and furnished with the application it is essential to commence the process as soon as possible.

Contact Information
Paul W. Tracey Solicitors
24 Marlborough Street
Dublin 1, Ireland

Tel: (01) 874 5656
Fax: (01) 874 5550
Email: law@traceysolicitors.ie