Kate Walsh (Progressive Democrats)

The issue of child abuse in institutions represents a dark period in the history of the State. The victims and survivors of this terrible period must not be forgotten. In the controversy that erupted last week, there was a real danger that the victims and our obligations to them would be forgotten. Rather than engage in useless political finger pointing, we should remember that the State failed in its obligation to these victims and, as citizens of the State, we all have an obligation to provide redress.

In many cases the State removed children from abusive situations in the home only to entrust them to abusive situations in religious institutions. In other cases, children were placed in repressive regimes in State-run institutions. The State failed many children. This is a chapter in recent history of which we should be deeply ashamed. The only remedy is for the State to act honourably and fulfil its obligations to the survivors of abuse. We cannot let them down a second time.

Last week, numbers were bandied about and assertions made that the redress scheme and indemnity deal with the religious orders could cost taxpayers up to €1 billion. While it is important to make good estimates of potential costs, another more important figure has gone almost unmentioned. According to the Comptroller and Auditor General's report, approximately 29,500 people born since 1930 were committed by the courts to industrial and reformatory schools. It has become clear that a high proportion of these children and young people were physically, sexually and psychologically abused in the most shameful manner in these institutions. This figure of 29,500 is the most important, not €1 billion, €700 million or €128 million. The figure constitutes 29,500 people, each with a story to tell, who were let down by society and the State. They should not be forgotten. In discussing costs, let us not forget the pain and suffering that lies behind each of their stories.