MOTHER & BABY HOMES & MAGDALENE LAUNDRIES INQUIRY ANNOUNCED BY STORMONT EXECUTIVE
HARTE COYLE COLLINS
SOLICITORS & ADVOCATES
3RD FEBRUARY 2021
Following the publication of the report “Commission of Investigation on Mother and Baby Homes in Ireland the Northern Ireland”, the Stormont Executive officially confirmed in January 2021 that an inquiry will be held into the atrocities that took place in institutions which were within the knowledge of state authorities.
The report which underpins the inquiry decision merely provides a general snapshot of what occurred in the institutions but further highlights the glaring questions that remain unanswered such as the high infancy mortality rate, the legalities of cross border & international adoptions and the full extent of the role of state officials. There remains no transparency as to the enormity of the disregard for basic human decency in the treatment of mothers and their children.
On the 26th January 2021 the Stormont Executive confirmed that the model for the new inquiry will be a “co-designed and victims-centered investigative process” which will be conducted for the next 6 months. This 6 month period will be a consultation period involving survivors and will be the catalyst for what model of investigation takes place and the outcome.
It is vital that survivors are involved in the consultation process on the type of inquiry and level of representation to be afforded to victims. This will ensure that the victims are the driving force behind shaping the type of inquiry resulting in a model which they find proportionate & appropriate in terms of redress, transparency in relation to the full extent of the atrocities which took place and ensuring accountability of those responsible. It is imperative that a robust inquiry takes place with no stone left unturned giving survivors a voice to break the cycle of abuse endured.
If you are a victim of mother and baby institutional abuse(s) do not hesitate to contact Senior partner Nichola Harte of our office for advice and representation on 02890-278227 or by e mail on info@hartecoylecollins.com.
See the link below for the research Report commissioned which underpinned the Stormont Executive decision to conduct an inquiry –
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/research-report-mother-and-baby-homes-and-magdalene-laundries-northern-ireland
Nichola Harte
Harte Coyle Collins
Solicitors & Advocates
9-15 Queen Street
Belfast
BT1 6EA
