The time for the government to take responsibility for Bethany Home neglect and abuse is now

Published: Tuesday, December 10, 2013

NWCI urgently requests the Government reconsider its policy on the survivors of the Bethany Home.   The Sinn Fein’s Private Member’s Motion, being tabled today, seeking apology and redress for surviving women and men of Bethany Home provides an opportunity for the Government to give recognition and justice to the survivors.

Orla O’Connor, Director of National Women’s Council of Ireland (NWCI) said,

“The Government’s basis for excluding Bethany Home survivors from the Residential Institutions Redress Scheme is both unjust and unsound. Bethany Home was subject to inspections under the Registration of Maternity Homes Act of 1934 and there is a wealth of evidence in the public domain and held by government departments showing State involvement.”

She continued,

“Neglect in the Bethany Home was so horrific that 219 children died there between 1922 and 1949. These children currently lie in unmarked graves in Mount Jerome Cemetery. The small number of elderly survivors of Bethany Home continue to be treated horrendously by the State.”

She concluded,

“This is a clear and well documented case of the State’s failure to protect children in its care from neglect and abuse. The time to take responsibility is now. We commend their strength and perseverance throughout the campaign. NWCI will continue to support them in their fight for justice.”

Ends/

For more information, please contact Sarah Clarkin, Communications Officer, National Women’s Council of Ireland, Tel. 085 858 9104