Speech on Survivors of Industrial Schools and Issuing of Certificates confirming relevant individuals do not have a Criminal Record

Go raibh maith agat Ceann Comhairle. I would like to echo, and confirm my support, for the apology made by the Taoiseach today on behalf of the Government.

I would also like to endorse the words of the Tánaiste and the Minister for Education. I share my colleagues’ deep sense of regret for the pain and suffering experienced by those who experienced detention in Industrial Schools.

I now want to make, Ceann Comhairle, an official statement as Minister for Justice in respect of people detained in industrial schools. And I know that this is an important official Statement for Mary, Mary, Miriam and Maurice that it will provide them with some solace.

As Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration I confirm that the State did not and does not regard individuals as having committed a criminal offence, and that no criminal record is recorded against them, by virtue of their detention in any Industrial School.

With regard to children who were detained in Industrial Schools and who were subsequently transferred to a Reformatory School solely by virtue of their detention in the Industrial School, they are likewise not considered to have had any criminal record.

No person and, in particular, no agency of the State, should regard these individuals as having committed a criminal offence, or having a criminal record.

I can also confirm that if individuals wish to have further confirmation that they do not have a criminal record arising from their detention in an Industrial School, or transfer to a Reformatory School solely by virtue of their detention in an Industrial School, that confirmation can be provided in the form of a written certificate, including posthumously.

Each request for the issuing of a certificate will be considered on a case-by case basis, following receipt and review of records.

Again, Ceann Comhairle, I would like to express my sincere sympathies to those who experienced detention in Industrial Schools, and hope that confirmation that the State does not consider these individuals to have a criminal record is a small but meaningful, acknowledgement of the need to repair this harm.