Magdalene Laundries and symphysiotomy scandal survivors share painful history

In both of these scandals, misguided, misogynistic, abusive Church doctrines were permitted by the State to be visited on its citizens.

A knitted child’s sock is tied to the front door of the former Magdalene Laundry on Sean Mc Dermott Street in Dublin’s north inner city on the evening The Cabinet published the final report of the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes at Government Buildings. Pic Julien Behal

Although separate schemes and different issues, the Magdalene Laundries and symphysiotomy scandals share many painful resonances.

Both operated in the shadows of a theocratic Ireland where Catholic doctrine was allowed to control women and limit their reproductive rights.