Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes seeks extension to complete its work due to COVID-19 restrictions

Commission of Investigation (Mother and Baby Homes and certain related Matters) issues 7th Interim Report to Minister Zappone
completion of work delayed because of COVID-19

The Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone, has today published the Seventh Interim Report from the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes.

The report from the Commission is short, but it highlights that the work of the Commission, like every other activity in Ireland, has been affected by the restrictions imposed as a consequence of COVID-19.

The report confirms that the Commission and its staff have been working remotely during the period of lockdown. While the final report is very close to completion, in order to comply with Public Health advice and directions, logistical difficulties have arisen. As a result, the Commission is requesting a revision of the timeframe for submitting its final report until 30 October 2020.

Responding to these developments, the Minister said:

“COVID-19 has impacted and restricted all of our lives in many ways. Our older citizens, which include many of the former residents of the institutions, have been deeply affected by this public health crisis. Even though the Commission has been working diligently during this time, they have been hampered in completing their report and are not in a position to deliver it as previously agreed on 26 June. I know former residents will be deeply disappointed with this delay. However, I also know that they will understand the effects and restrictions of COVID-19 on everyday life.”

At its meeting today the government agreed to a request from the Commission for an extension of four months to allow it to complete its final report. The report is now due to be delivered on 30 October 2020.

The Minister will ensure that former residents, their families and supporters are among the first to learn of the new timeframe.

ENDS

7th Interim Report from the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes

Notes to the Editor:

any request for an extension of time from the Commission is considered in the context of the legislative framework underpinning its work, including the Commissions of Investigation Act 2004, Statutory Instrument No. 57 of 2015 (which includes the Commission’s Terms of Reference), and subsequent amendments
the government decision amends Article 5 of the terms of reference as follows: “The Commission shall complete the reports required in relation to its investigation as soon as practicable but no later than 30 October 2020“
if you wish to contact the Commission you can do so by email at info@mbhcoi.ie or by their confidential Freephone numbers 1800 80 66 88 (ROI only) and +353-1-644-5088 (outside ROI)
if you wish to contact the Department of Children and Youth Affairs in relation to Mother and Baby Homes you can reach the Mother and Baby Home Investigation Unit at +353-1-647-3200
there is a telephone line available for people seeking details of support available to those affected by these issues. Those seeking such information may telephone the HSE National Information Line; Low Call Telephone 1850 24 1850

Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes seeks extension to complete its work due to COVID-19 restrictions

Notes to the Editor:

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