James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes and certain related matters was formally established by Government Order on the 17th February 2015.

The Commission is specifically tasked with investigating post-mortem practices and procedures including the burial arrangements for all mothers and children who died while resident in these homes and the Bon Secours Home in Tuam is, of course, included in the Commission's Terms of Reference. The Government Order and a number of related explanatory documents are available on my Department’s website (www.dcya.gov.ie).

The Commission has begun this very important work and is required to submit a final report within 36 months of its establishment. However, it is essential to recognise that the Commission is completely independent in the conduct of its investigations. Therefore the precise timing and approach to its investigations are matters for the Commission to independently decide and progress. I have no further information in relation to the ongoing investigation.

As the Deputy may be aware the Commission recently launched a nationwide advertising campaign inviting persons with relevant information to contact the Commission. Persons wishing to contact the Commission may do so by writing to: Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes, 73 Lower Baggot Street, Dublin 2, email info@mbhcoi.ie or by freephone on 1800 80 66 88.