Talks on compensation for child abuse victims

By GARETH ROSE
Published on 08/03/2013 00:35

PLANS for a reparation fund to compensate victims of historic child abuse have been discussed in talks involving the Scottish Government.

Other proposals include an apology law and changing the timebar so compensation cases relating to historic failings can be brought in the civil courts.

Representatives of the Scottish Government, councils, churches, and abuse survivors met in “Interaction” talks facilitated by the Scottish Human Rights Commission last week.

However, no commitments have yet been made and further discussions will take place in the summer.

Professor Dr Monica McWilliams, chair of the Interaction, said: “I was really encouraged by the positive engagement and courage from all sides to take part in this important exchange. The areas agreed for further negotiation represent a useful step towards achieving justice in this challenging area.”

A government spokesman added: “As part of Interaction, we are working to identify what more can be done to respond to survivors of historic abuse and we will continue to listen to and discuss the ideas put forward.”