Galway West TD Mairéad Farrell has called on the Government to ensure that survivors of mother and baby homes have an opportunity to have their voices heard.
She said that we need to hear the voices of survivors and that they have been ignored in this process.
“Over the last number of weeks I have been contacted by thousands of people who have expressed their deep hurt at the Bill and its passing, it is essential that survivors are now heard,”said Deputy Farrell.
“Survivors must be given the opportunity to come to the Children, Disability, Equality and Integration Committee and give their views on what has happened.”
Deputy Farrell called for the Minister to come before the Committee and explain on what legal basis he has proceeded with this bill, as well what advice the Data Protection Commissioner gave him and when.
“The Minister should also come before the Dáil as a matter of priority to explain the advice he was given by the Data Protection Commissioner and why this was not followed,” said the Sinn Féin TD.
“The Data Protection Commissioner also needs to come before the Committee and explain what advice she gave to the Minister and the basis on which she gave it.
“Survivors have spoken of their deep distress at the events of the last week. They deserve to be listened to with respect.”
