Clare Daly (Dublin North, United Left) | Oireachtas source

Everyone welcomes the independence of the commission. I was impressed by the manner in which the Minister set it up and am glad it places an emphasis on the historical context of what went on at that time. However, within that we must be very careful that this is not used as an excuse. No matter what the historical context, I cannot believe neglecting and abusing children and leaving their emaciated bodies in shoe boxes or unmarked graves was ever deemed acceptable by anybody. Therefore, the relatives and the victims have a right to have their history and their remains treated respectfully. I am glad the Minister is stating clearly that the commission can decide on that.

However, I am still a little unclear in regard to criminal investigations, because the section that set up the investigation seems to suggest information gathered cannot be used in a criminal proceeding. It would be a little ridiculous if this means there is to be duplication afterwards, because most of the victims want to see criminal prosecutions at the end of this investigation as part of the bigger picture.

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