Mitchell O’Connor welcomes extension of counselling services for those affected by Mother and Baby homes

Fine Gael Dun Laoghaire TD and Tuam native, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, has today (Wednesday) welcomed the announcement from the Minister for Children, Charlie Flanagan TD, that counselling services are being expanded to help cope with the concerns of people affected by Mother and Baby homes.

“The high level coverage in recent weeks surrounding the treatment of babies and mothers in homes run by religious institutions will have been very distressing for members of the public who were directly affected themselves, or who are aware of family members who have spent time in one of the homes.

“I am pleased therefore that Minister Flanagan is taking such a proactive approach to dealing with this issue comprehensively and to provide support to people who may have been affected by the issues raised. The CONNECT helpline has been significantly extended and is now available every evening from 6-10pm. The HSE has also set up an information line for members of the public and its National Counselling Service is available free of charge.

“Following the announcement of the establishment of the Commission of Investigation, Minister Flanagan made it clear that he will be consulting with members of the Opposition on what form the inquiry should take. A special email address has also been created to allow organisations and members of the public to make submissions directly to the Department of Children on what should be included in the Commission’s Terms of Reference.

“This isn’t a party political issue; it is about dealing comprehensively with another very difficult aspect of our past and how women and children in Ireland were once treated like second class citizens. It is incredibly important that the Commission of Investigation proceeds with its work without delay. Work is ongoing by the cross departmental group which is gathering information, and it is due to report to the Government by the end of this month.”

ENDS