Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire (Cork South Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

Deputy Clare Daly made a good point about Chinese walls and abstract distinctions. The Department may hide behind the Minister on the basis that the Minister ultimately calls the shots, but my concern is that the Minister will do the same, with less justification or rationale. Mr. Martin said the Department did not have the discretion or authority to include An Grianán and similar institutions in the Magdalen laundry scheme. He said they found themselves alone in a harsh, physically demanding work environment. Is it not fair to say forced labour was a significant part of the Magdalen institutions?