Numerous religious bodies have yet to contribute towards Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme

Norma Foley, Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, has published a report indicating five of eight religious bodies have yet to contribute towards the Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme.

The report, published today, was led by independent negotiator Sheila Nunan. Nunan reached out to each religious body over a period of 20 months, who all had past involvements in mother and baby institutions.

The Sisters of Bon Secours offered a cash contribution of €12.97m, which Nunan determined was a “meaningful contribution.” The Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul also offered the contribution of a building, while the Sisters of St John of God offered a donation of €75,000 to be used towards a “charitable purpose” associated with mother and baby home survivors.

The five remaining bodies which did not contribute include The Sisters of Mercy, The Legion of Mary, The Church of Ireland, Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd and Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary.

“While acknowledging the financial contribution by the Sisters of Bon Secours, I believe that much more could have been done by the other religious bodies concerned,” said Foley. “I would encourage other religious bodies to reflect further on their willingness to make a meaningful contribution to the Payment Scheme and note that my Department is available to engage with them on this matter at any stage.”

The full report is available here.