Two religious groups offer funds for Mother and Baby payment scheme

A recent report by negotiator Sheila Nunan has revealed that only two out of eight religious organizations historically associated with Mother and Baby and County Home Institutions have offered financial contributions to the Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme.

• Sisters of Bon Secours: This congregation has pledged a cash contribution of €12.97 million, an offer that the Government has accepted.
• Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul: They have proposed donating a building. Minister for Children, Norma Foley, will engage further with the congregation to assess this offer.
• Sisters of St. John of God: This group extended a conditional donation of €75,000 intended for charitable purposes related to survivors of mother and baby homes.

The remaining five organizations have not made any contributions.

Government’s Response

Minister Foley expressed deep disappointment with the overall response from the religious bodies. She urged these organizations to reflect on their collective responsibility concerning the tragic legacy of these institutions and the enduring intergenerational impacts. The Minister has also directed her officials to consult with the Office of the Attorney General to explore any additional options available to the State.

In communication with survivors, Minister Foley acknowledged that the announcement might cause distress and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to implementing all aspects of its action plan. The Department emphasized that the benefits provided under the Payment Scheme remain unaffected by the religious bodies’ responses.

Religious Organizations Involved

The eight religious organizations referenced in the Commission of Investigation are:

• Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd
• Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary
• Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul
• Sisters of Bon Secours
• Congregation of the Sisters of Mercy
• Sisters of St. John of God
• Legion of Mary
• The Church of Ireland (Representative Church Body)

Minister’s Appeal for Further Contributions

Minister Foley emphasized that no financial contribution can fully atone for the experiences endured by women in Mother and Baby homes. She appealed to the religious orders to reconsider their positions and consider making donations to the State’s redress scheme, highlighting that while financial contributions cannot undo the past, they represent a step toward acknowledging and addressing the wrongs committed.

The Minister also noted that, to date, approximately 6,000 out of an estimated 30,000 eligible individuals have applied to the redress scheme. She expressed hope for increased participation, acknowledging that many potential applicants may reside abroad, particularly in the United Kingdom.

Minister Foley observed that previous redress schemes have seen a gradual increase in applications over time, anticipating a similar trend with this initiative.