Education Minister Helen McEntee brought the proposal to Cabinet
A Commission of Investigation will look into historic sexual abuse in schools.
A scoping inquiry found there were more than 2,300 allegations - involving 884 alleged abusers at more than 300 schools run by religious orders.
Education Minister Helen McEntee says work is ongoing on a redress scheme for victims and survivors - while she said attempts to get funding from those responsible for the abuse are being followed.
It will be chaired by Mr Justice Michael MacGrath.

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