In establishing the independent statutory Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes in February 2015, the then Government sought to ensure an independent and thorough investigation of what happened to vulnerable women and children in these institutions during the period 1922 to 1998. Notably, the Commission was specifically tasked with investigating concerns related to systematic discrimination within these institutions. Although the Executive Summary of the Commission's Final report touches on racism and discrimination, it should be read in conjunction with Chapter 31 which is dedicated to this strand of the Commission's investigation.
Following publication of the Final Report of the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes, the Taoiseach offered a formal apology on behalf of the Government, the State and its citizens to all those who spent time in these institutions. In this apology, the Taoiseach acknowledged the failings of the State, over many decades, to protect vulnerable citizens, and to uphold their fundamental rights. The State apology recognised the “additional impact which a lack of knowledge and understanding had on the treatment and outcomes of mothers and children with different racial and cultural heritage, those who faced mental health challenges, or those with physical and intellectual disabilities”.
It was further acknowledged that “such discriminatory attitudes exacerbated the shame and stigma felt by some of our most vulnerable citizens, especially where opportunities for non-institutional placement of children were restricted by an unjust belief that they were unsuitable for placement with families”.
This State apology marked a starting point for further measures designed to address the needs and concerns of survivors and their families.
I understand that some survivors consider that the Final Report of the Commission of Investigation does not adequately reflect their lived experience of the institutions. Some are also unhappy with the treatment of their testimony, and the record made of that testimony.
As I have previously stated, the Commission of Investigation conducted its work independently of Government, within the legal framework of the Commissions of Investigation Act 2004 and the terms of reference provided to it by the Oireachtas. It is not open to Government to retrospectively seek to amend or to unilaterally append statements or declarations to the independent Commission's report. However, I would note that the UN statement and the State's response are in the public domain and, therefore, available and accessible to all. I would also note my commitment to advancing an initiative to ensure that the accounts of survivors of Mother and Baby and County Homes Institutions are formally recorded and recognised as part of the official record of Ireland.
