Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes and certain related Matters submitted its final report to me on the 30th October 2020. I had signalled that there would be a short time interval between receipt of the report and the separate arrangements for its publication. A number of relevant procedural issues are being expedited to ensure I can seek the approval of Government to publish the report as soon as possible.

The conclusions on all matters regarding the treatment of former residents of Mother and Baby Homes, and related institutions contained in the report must be taken into consideration in determining the appropriate State response. We owe it to all those who have so courageously shared their experiences with the Commission to avoid pre-empting the Commission's findings and conclusions on the matters referred to it for investigation.

Once Government approves publication of the final report, I will be in a position to engage with stakeholders in relation to the report, its findings and recommendations, and the next steps to be taken. Our duty to the women and children who passed through these institutions, and to their families, is to ensure that their lived experiences are shared, acknowledged and understood.