Holly Cairns (Cork South West, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

It is essential to extend the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes so people can seek a judicial review, if required. That is a legal entitlement. It would allow the Director of Public Prosecutions to continue its investigation. If any testimonies are not recovered, survivors can seek a remedy under the general data protection regulation, GDPR, as required by EU law.

Yesterday, the Government passed the Social Democrats motion to extend the commission but it will not do it. We all know this is a cynical move to avoid the optics of Government Deputies voting against extending the commission. The Government can simply ignore it until the commission dissolves on Sunday. It is unbelievable, cynical and beyond disappointing. I do not know how the Minister will square that with the electorate, survivors or himself, but the legislation is ready to go. Will the Minister please change his approach and honour the motion that was already passed in the interests of justice and democracy?

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