Mother and Baby Homes – Independent Panel Report

Earlier this month, on 7 July 2026, the Independent Panel published its report into Northern Ireland’s Mother and Baby Homes, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses. For the survivors and families Phoenix Law has represented over the past 13 years, it is a further step in a process that now needs to move from acknowledgement to action.

70 recommendations

The Panel’s report contains 70 recommendations, based on testimony from survivors who came forward, in many cases for the first time, to describe experiences of trauma, stigma and loss carried for decades. Adele Johnston of Birth Mothers and their Children Together noted that giving testimony “was not without personal cost,” and that some who began this process did not live to see the report published.

Claire McKeegan, Solicitor at Phoenix Law, who acts for the majority of survivors involved, said the report’s real significance lies in what happens next:

“Today’s report is the result of years of determination by survivors who refused to allow their stories to remain hidden. They have carried the burden of trauma, stigma and loss for far too long. This report must not be viewed as the end of the process but as a foundation for meaningful action.

“We welcome the publication of the Independent Panel’s findings and recognise the enormous contribution made by every survivor who shared deeply personal and painful experiences. Their testimony has helped expose systemic failings and institutional practices that caused immeasurable harm to women, children and families.

“The publication of this report now places a clear responsibility on the Executive and all relevant institutions. Survivors deserve more than acknowledgement; they deserve accountability, comprehensive redress, access to records, appropriate support services and, where warranted, unequivocal apologies.”

Next steps: Public Inquiry and redress

The report follows legislation to establish a statutory Public Inquiry and redress scheme, amended and shaped with input from survivors themselves. Paul McClarey of Truth Recovery NI, a survivor panel member, connected the two milestones: “It’s a big step towards the public Inquiry and Redress. Last week MLAs applauded victims and survivors as the legislation we helped amend and shape was passed… Today this report is a culmination of the voices of victims who gave their lived experiences, many for the first time. I encourage more to come forward to the Inquiry.”

With the legislative groundwork now in place and the Panel’s findings published, the immediate priority is appointing a Chair to lead the Public Inquiry. Ms McKeegan was direct on this point: “We call on the Executive office to urgently appoint a Chair to the Public Inquiry.”

What Phoenix Law is doing next

Phoenix Law is now working through the Panel’s 70 recommendations with clients to shape a survivor-centred response. As Ms McKeegan put it, “Any response must be survivor-centred and informed by the voices of those who have lived through these experiences. It is essential that this moment is not lost through delay or inaction. Our clients have waited decades for truth and recognition. They should not be asked to wait any longer for justice.”

Phoenix Law remains committed to supporting survivors as the Public Inquiry and redress process move forward, and will continue to advocate for measures that recognise the harm survivors suffered and help safeguard future generations.

If you or your family were affected by Mother and Baby Homes, Magdalene Laundries or Workhouses in Northern Ireland, and have not yet come forward, contact Phoenix Law to discuss your options.