THE “CONTINUED REFUSAL” of four orders that ran Magdalene laundries has been criticised by the UN.

The UN Committee Against Torture (UNCAT) today released a report into the Holy See, making specific mention of the Magdalene redress schemes.

The government has said that the fund will cost between €35 and €60 million.

The report says the state should:

“Encourage the provision of redress by individual religious orders to victims of violations of the Convention carried out by them and take additional steps to ensure that victims obtain redress as needed, including in the case of the Magdalene Laundries.

“Appropriate measures should be taken to ensure the physical and psychological recovery and social reintegration of the victims of abuse.”

The recommendations relating to the Magdalene orders are listed by UNCAT as one of the issues the Vatican is being asked to provide “follow-up information in response to the Committee’s recommendation” within one year.

The Irish Sisters of Charity, the Good Shepherd Sisters, the Sisters of Our Lady of Charity and the Sisters of Mercy say that they are contributing to restitution by providing care to around 130 former laundry workers.

The report welcomes a promise by Pope Francis that the Holy See will be “even stronger” in dealing with abuse.

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