‘Their stories must be heard’ – Kilkenny TD slams ‘disgraceful’ treatment of abuse survivors

A Kilkenny TD has urged the Children’s Minister Roderic O’Gorman “to respect survivors’ wishes” and ensure the Mother and Baby Homes records are not sealed for 30 years.

Deputy Funchion, who is Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on children, said ahead of a Dáil debate today: “The way that this Government has attempted to rush through the Mother and Baby Homes Bill is nothing short of disgraceful.

“Survivors, their families, their legal representatives and their advocates have been understandably deeply distressed by the appalling way in which their wishes have been disregarded.

“It is not right for their testimonies to be sealed for 30 years. They have been brave to speak out and share their stories. We must ensure their stories are heard.”

The Kilkenny TD urged Minister O’Gorman to “do the right thing and put a stop to this unfair and indefensible Bill today”.

She added: “The amendments submitted go nowhere near far enough and they fail to address the major issues at the heart of this injustice.

“I am sure that the Minister could not in good conscience see survivors’ distress and trauma added to in this way. It is not too late for him to do the right thing.

“Today I am urging him to ensure that survivors’ voices are at the centre of his approach. He must listen to their objections in a respectful and compassionate way.”