I recognise the importance and value of memorials for former residents of mother and baby homes and their families. A number of advocacy groups have made representations to me seeking support for the provision of such memorials. I believe it is appropriate that their experiences would be publicly acknowledged in this way. I am also aware of the positive indications of my predecessor as Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in this regard.
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that funding has been identified from within my Department's 2017 Vote to support the provision of memorials. It is clear that an inclusive approach is a crucial to advancing this proposal and my Department will work with the representative groups to determine how best to support the delivery of local memorials.
I would hope that this could be significantly advanced while the Commission's work is on-going and my officials will be in contact with representative groups in the coming weeks.