Taoiseach and Minister Foley Welcome Passing of Philomena’s Law in the UK

The Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, and the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, have welcomed the passing into UK law of new legislation commonly known as Philomena’s Law.

The new legislation ensures that eligible survivors living in the UK can receive a payment under the Scheme without losing access to means-tested benefits and includes a disregard for Income Tax.

Welcoming the introduction of the law, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said:

“Securing this protection for survivors was agreed at the UK-Ireland Summit in Cork earlier this year, and I am delighted to see that commitment now delivered. I would like to thank the UK Government for their co-operation and commitment to ensuring that these survivors can avail of the Scheme without barriers.”

Minister Foley, welcoming the news, said:

“I’m very pleased to see this important legislation has passed into law in the UK. I was conscious that some survivors of Mother and Baby Institutions living in the UK who are eligible for the Scheme were facing reduced benefits if they accepted a payment. This new law, named after survivor and campaigner Philomena Lee, has removed that barrier.”

Minister Foley also acknowledged the positive response to the recent international public awareness campaign promoting the Scheme.

Since the latest campaign started in the autumn in Ireland and the UK, more than 520 additional applications have been received. This represents an increase of 62% compared with the number of applications received during the first six months of 2026. In addition, there has been a significant increase in engagement with the Payment Scheme Office, average weekly enquiry volumes increased by 133%, rising from 139 enquiries per week during the first six months of 2026 to 323 enquiries per week during the campaign period.

Applications from survivors in the UK have also increased by almost 60% since the campaign started, and it is hoped that this figure will rise even further following the passing of this new legislation.

Minister Foley said:

“I am heartened to see the increase in applications. I want everyone who is eligible for the Scheme to know about it and to have access to the information they need to apply. My department is dedicated to supporting people every step of the way, with confidentiality, dignity and respect.

I would also like to thank the Taoiseach and my colleagues across Government. I would especially like to express my gratitude to Liam Conlon MP who I have met on a number of occasions on this issue, for his personal commitment and hard work. I also want to thank Philomena Lee for her unwavering support for survivors living across the UK.”

Applications can be made online or by post. To find out more or get help applying, visit www.paymentscheme.ie or call 1800 843 354 free of charge from within Ireland. From outside Ireland, call +353 1 522 9992; charges may apply.