Magdalene Laundries 2021-07-21
2021-07-21
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The research report published in January 2021 highlighted the abuse suffered by women and children in mother and baby homes and Magdalene Laundries in Northern Ireland over six decades.
What recent discussions have been had with the Northern Ireland Executive regarding the research report “Mother and Baby Homes and Magdalene Laundries in Northern Ireland”, published in January 2021?
Although this is a devolved issue, the Government have discussed work on an independent investigation promised to victims. An expert panel has been appointed in March to establish terms of reference for the investigation. The UK Government are committed to working closely with the Executive to help victims and their families.
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Assessment & feedback
The questioner asked about recent discussions, but the answer did not specify any concrete details or timelines for these discussions.
Under Way
Work On
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The University of Ulster and Queen's University conducted a report revealing heart-wrenching abuse suffered by women and girls over six decades in Northern Ireland.
What confidence can the Minister give to victims that politicians across these islands will do everything possible to address the staggering injustice they suffered?
The Government understand the importance of ensuring that those individuals who suffered abuse receive recognition and answers. The UK Government delivered the Historical Institutional Abuse (Northern Ireland) Act 2019 to help secure a redress scheme for victims, and work on an independent investigation is under way.
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Assessment & feedback
The questioner sought confidence that politicians would do everything possible, but the answer only mentioned past actions without addressing future commitments.
Right
Under Way
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The research report revealed painful neglect and abuse suffered by girls as young as 12 in mother and baby homes and Magdalene Laundries in Northern Ireland over six decades.
What confidence can Ministers provide that the lived experience of victims will be heard clearly, and necessary support provided from Westminster?
The Government acknowledge the shocking findings of the report and understand work is under way on an independent investigation. We want to ensure this issue is followed up effectively, but we await the outcome of their work in the devolved space.
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Assessment & feedback
The questioner asked for confidence that victim voices will be heard clearly, but the answer only acknowledged the importance without providing specific assurances.
Follow Up Effectively
Await
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
Mother and baby homes have had long-lasting impacts on victims and their families, causing real hurt and trauma.
Can the Minister ensure that all investigations include consultation with survivors of mother and baby homes? Will no further action be taken without full involvement and permission?
The Government recognise the importance of ensuring victims are involved in any investigative or review processes. The Victims and Survivors Service is working with victims to identify support needs, including a dedicated website and phone line for participation in the co-design process.
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Assessment & feedback
The questioner asked if the Minister could ensure full involvement, but the answer only confirmed ongoing work without providing specific commitments.
Stand Ready To Support
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
A recent report revealed neglect and abuse suffered by over 14,000 women in mother and baby homes in Northern Ireland.
Does the Minister agree that the inquiry must be effective, robust, and meet the needs of victims who have waited too long for justice?
I absolutely agree that any support we can provide is available. The panel making progress swiftly is important to ensure victims receive acknowledgement and answers.
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Assessment & feedback
The questioner asked for agreement on the robustness of the inquiry, but the answer only reiterated a commitment without providing specific details or timelines.
Swiftly
Stand Ready
Response accuracy