An apology is the first step to justice

Published: Monday, February 11, 2013

The National Women's Council of Ireland welcomes Fianna Fail's Private Members Motion which calls for an apology to the survivors of the Magdalene institutions and the creation of a dedicated unit within the Department of Justice and Equality to co-ordinate remaining aspects of the State's response.

Rachel Doyle, Head of Outreach, National Women's Council of Ireland said,

'We welcome Fianna Fail's Private Members Motion and call on the Taoiseach and the Irish Government to take a stand for justice and apologise to the survivors of the Magdalene Institutions. This apology would be the first step in bringing a sense of dignity, respect and justice to the women whose lives in and outside of the laundries were and continue to be characterised by physical and psychological suffering, poverty and stigma.'

She added,

'We would welcome the establishment of a dedicated unit in the Department of Justice and Equality. This unit could play a crucial role in ensuring that these women receive the support they need in old age and financial compensation for their suffering and the work they did in the Magdalene Laundries.'

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For more information, contact Silke Paasche, Communications Officer, National Women's Council of Ireland, Tel. 085 8589104