12 March 2025

SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP is to co-sponsor Philomena’s Law – new draft legislation which would ensure that survivors of Mother and Baby Homes living in Britain receive compensation without being penalised.

This legislation will be introduced by Labour MP Liam Conlon on Wednesday 12 March to support thousands of former residents of Irish Mother and Baby Homes and County Homes living in Britain who are set to lose their benefits if they accept compensation from the Irish Government for time spent in these institutions.

South Belfast and Mid Down MP Claire Hanna said:

"Over a decade ago, my mother Carmel Hanna was the MLA who drove the campaign for restitution for those who experienced institutional abuse in children’s homes - justice for those who were treated poorly by the state is a cause close to my heart.

“I’m really glad to sponsor this important legislation introduced today from Labour MP Liam Conlon alongside SDLP Foyle MP Colum Eastwood and others, and although no amount of money can erase the abuse and trauma that these women and children have had to endure throughout their lives, redress payments play a crucial role in acknowledging the harm they've suffered. Survivors should never face financial penalties for accepting these payments.

"The goal of this legislation is to not only protect compensation payments from the Mother and Baby Homes Payment Scheme but also to increase awareness of the scheme, encouraging more survivors to apply."