Module 2 - Child Migrant Programme

Updated:  23rd August 2017

Investigation into the Child Migrant Programme commenced on 1st September 2014 and spanned 9 sitting days.  This module examined the experiences of 50 applicants who were in institutions in Northern Ireland before being sent to Australia as a child migrant.

Teams from the Inquiry went to Australia in 2013 and 2014 to gather information and to enable those living in Australia to have the same opportunity to describe their experiences and record their witness statements.  

It was determined that there were approximately 130 young children in the care of Northern Ireland voluntary institutions or state bodies who were sent to Australia as child migrants between 1922 and 1995.

Applicants that could describe the events which occurred to them before they left Northern Ireland as a child migrant were asked to provide oral evidence by video link at the public hearings.  Others gave their evidence in person or had their written statement read out.

The timetable of proceedings with links to the transcripts, witness statements and evidence are provided below for each sitting day.  Video's of the opening statements can also be seen at the web addresses provided.

Readers may find parts of the transcripts, witness statements and evidence offensive or distressing.  Some of them contain graphic descriptions of violent and sexual behaviour, which are not suitable to be viewed by persons under 18 years of age.  If you have been affected by reading this material you may wish to seek appropriate support.  Lifeline NI can be contacted on 0808 808 8000.  

Note:  Information on this page may be subject to change.

Key to designations

HIA  – A witness who was resident in an institution and has given evidence to Inquiry.