The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Varadkar leaves door open to Hayes compensation
TAOISEACH Leo Varadkar has said the State may offer compensation to Joanne Hayes and her family for their treatment by gardaí during the Kerry Babies investigation in 1984.
Following the Gardaí’s unprecedented apology to the Hayes family Mr Varadkar – who admitted he knew little about the case until recently – apologised on behalf of the state and said that the Government will discuss compensation with representatives of the family.
“I absolutely want to reiterate the apology that the gardai have made to Joanne Hayes and also to make that apology on behalf of the State as well,” he said.
“I can’t offer compensation here and now but it is something that I think we can discuss with her representatives in the period ahead,” said Mr Varadkar.
“She evidently is a woman who was very badly treated by our state and by our society in a way that so many other women have been in the past and that needs to change,” said Mr Varadkar.
Tanaiste Simon Coveney and Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan have also issued apologies to the Hayes family on behalf of the State.
The Hayes family are not commenting on the matter and have asked for privacy.
The Kerryman understands that, as yet, no formal approach has been made to the family regarding compensation.
Minister Flanagan briefed the cabinet on a possible compensation package on Tuesday.
He is also due to discuss the matter with the Attorney General in the coming weeks.
The Department of Justice said that all options are still under consideration.