Catherine Ardagh (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I rise to mention the recent developments regarding the Tuam Bon Secours Mother and Baby Home. Having read of them, we have all been left touched, shocked and in a state of horror.

I wish to make a number of comments on this matter. I am glad that the terms of reference of the investigation were flexible enough to be covered by the current investigation into the Bon Secours home in Tuam, where bodies of children aged between three and a half weeks to two and a half years were discovered during exploratory excavations. This discovery is deeply saddening and unveils to us the dark underworld of Irish society.

I welcome the fact that the commission has referred this matter and the relevant files to the Galway coroner. It shows that the commission was the correct body to have in place and is working to ensure that we get to the truth of the matter. It is important that the truth comes out and we collectively reflect on our past, not just for ourselves, but for the victims and families concerned. We must ensure that lessons are learned and that they will dictate current and future policy, not just on providing safeguards for vulnerable children in care, but for all children going through our education system. Lessons must also be learned about maternity care so as to ensure that it is given the proper resources, and that proper standards are enshrined in it.

Last weekend, I met many people who had no connection with Tuam or Galway, but I cannot put into words how upset they were and I have been about this discovery.I ask the Leader to ensure the Minister will provide the commission with the necessary resources to deal with this matter and that we do not forget about it next week when "Prime Time" comes up with another news item. It must be kept on the agenda as the truth must come out.