A chara, – I do not in any way want to detract from the public spotlight illuminating the misogynistic abuse perpetrated through our Magdalene laundry system. What I write is presented as an addition to these dreadful experiences, some of which have been clearly articulated in the McAleese report.
In reaction to the report, Taoiseach Enda Kenny spoke of an “Ireland where we have more compassion, empathy, insight, heart” and of one where “at last we are learning those terrible lessons” from history.
One is left confused and angry at such assertions in the light of evidence of “sustained and prolonged restriction of human rights and civil liberties” of the children of asylum-seeking adults placed in the direct provision system in contemporary Ireland (Irish Refugee Council, 2012, State Sanctioned Child Poverty and Exclusion).
Speaking on the McAleese report, Eamon Gilmore, TD, argued the “principles of human rights; of personal freedom; and personal dignity” should underpin the State’s relationship with its citizens. Are these children the “citizens” to whom Mr Gilmore referred?
Little hope for those who are not citizens and yet require the protection of our State! A general understanding of “learning” is that it denotes a permanent change in behaviour that results from experience. It appears that Prof Diarmaid Ferriter is correct; countries never learn, no matter what their leaders apologise for.
Report and apology in 40 years anyone? – Yours, etc,