Taoiseach welcomes UK passing of Philomena’s Law to protect Mother and Baby Institution survivors

The Taoiseach has welcomed the UK Government's decision to pass new legislation, commonly known as Philomena’s Law.

The legislation will allow survivors living in the UK to receive a payment under the Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme, without losing their means-tested benefits or tax reductions in the UK.

The last campaign in Ireland and the UK saw over 520 additional applications received, an increase of 62%.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “Securing this protection for survivors was agreed at the UK-Ireland Summit in Cork earlier this year, and I am delighted to see that commitment now delivered. I would like to thank the UK Government for their co-operation and commitment to ensuring that these survivors can avail of the Scheme without barriers.”

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality Norma Foley said: “I'm very pleased to see this important legislation has passed into law in the UK. I was conscious that some survivors of Mother and Baby Institutions living in the UK who are eligible for the Scheme were facing reduced benefits if they accepted a payment. This new law, named after survivor and campaigner Philomena Lee, has removed that barrier.

“I am heartened to see the increase in applications. I want everyone who is eligible for the Scheme to know about it and to have access to the information they need to apply. My department is dedicated to supporting people every step of the way, with confidentiality, dignity and respect.

“I would also like to thank the Taoiseach and my colleagues across Government. I would especially like to express my gratitude to Liam Conlon MP, whom I have met on a number of occasions on this issue, for his personal commitment and hard work. I also want to thank Philomena Lee for her unwavering support for survivors living across the UK."