Independent investigation needed into allegations at mother and baby homes

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Children, Robert Troy TD, has called for a full investigation into the death and burial of hundreds of babies in a number of mother and baby homes throughout the country.

Deputy Troy called for the independent investigation to be set up immediately, adding that an inter-departmental group does not go far enough.

He commented: “I was horrified to learn of the brutal and inhumane treatment of 800 babies at a mother and baby home in Galway along with similar allegations at other facilities throughout the country.

“It is appalling that the true extent of the circumstances surrounding the deaths and burial of these infants is still not known, even though these events occurred in the 1970s. There have been further allegations of appalling treatment of mothers and their babies at other homes in Castlepollard in Westmeath, Bessborough in Cork and Roscrea in Tipperary.

“The state has failed these babies, their parents and their families. The truth must be found and it must be done so urgently. I am deeply concerned that this issue of vital national importance has not been deemed serious enough to be taken as topical issue in the Dáil today.

“I acknowledge the announcement of the setting up of an inter-departmental group but this falls short of an independent investigation into all these allegations. I hope this is not a delaying tactic.

“I am also calling on the Minister for Children to explain why the report of the horrific burials in Galway may have been with his department for over a year. If so, there must be serious questions asked of the operation of that Department.

“There is no room for procrastination and passing the buck here, we need to see swift and decisive commitment from the Government to independently investigate these allegations.”