Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

It is not my intention to prejudge the outcome of the Government's deliberation on the commission to investigate mother and baby homes. I hope the detailed terms of reference could be formulated in the coming weeks.

It is my intention that the commission will commence work during the summer and that prior to 17 July, the last Dáil sitting day, the formal terms of reference will be agreed. However, I must advise the Deputy that the McAleese report examined links between mother and baby homes, in particular the institution in Tuam, and Magdalen laundries.

My colleague, the Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Frances Fitzgerald, asked a valid question relating to how the inclusion of Magdalen laundries in the terms of reference of another inquiry will interest and benefit the women in question. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan may be in a position to advise me on such issues but I assure her the question she raised is being considered. Given the scale of the issue and the scope of investigations already under way, I do not wish to reopen issues that have been dealt with in many respects.

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