NWCI welcomes Terms of Reference of Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby homes

Published: Friday, January 09, 2015

National Women’s Council of Ireland (NWCI) today welcomes the Government announcement of the terms of reference of an Independent Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby homes from 1922-1998.

Orla O'Connor, Director of NWCI said,
‘NWCI has campaigned with survivors of mother and baby homes and their families to insure the inclusion of infant mortality rates, mass burial of children in unmarked graves, illegal adoption practices and medical testing on children and babies and we welcome that these areas are included in the terms of reference of the Commission.'

She continued,
'The inclusion of the Bethany Homes is also to be welcomed as we already know of 221 children from Bethany Home, buried in unmarked graves in Mount Jerome cemetery, 77 of whom died over a three year period. The abusive practices for example in Bethany were not unique, but were replicated across the State.'

Orla O'Connor stated,
'The lack of reference to the Magdalene Laundries is a cause of serious concern and NWCI calls on the Commission to ensure that they are included in the investigation.The inquiry must involve the abusive practices of the religious orders and the failure of the State in its duty of care. It is critical that the testimonies of witnesses are at the core of the work of the Commission and are central to informing the conclusions and recommendations which will emerge.'