Redress scheme - Justice for all survivors

Taoiseach Enda Kenny’s intimation that former residents of the Bethany Homes and Summerhill Training Centre may also be included in a redress scheme, much like that for the Magdalene women, will be applauded.

He should go further and give a firm pledge that they too will come under the review conducted by Mr Justice John Quirke who will recommend the best means of providing the survivors with support and payments.

The generosity of the Taoiseach’s heartfelt apology on behalf of the Irish people shows what political leaders can achieve when they refuse to hide behind officialdom and decide to be themselves.

It is now time for the nuns to apologise to their victims and also to contribute generously towards the redress scheme. There should be no more cosy deals between the State and the religious orders.