The Catholic Archbishop of Armagh has said he would be disappointed if the religious congregations were scapegoated for their role in mother-and-baby homes.

Speaking on RTÉ’s ;This Week’ programme, Archbishop Eamon Martin said: “They were commissioned by the State and local authorities, county councils, and they were expected to intervene when the rest of society had basically banished these mothers and their unborn children”.

“They found themselves on the frontline.”

Dr Martin said there was “clear evidence that the day-to-day running of these institutions was very harsh,” but he said they were subject to inspection and oversight by the State.

“As soon as women and children went into these places, society didn’t seem to want to know any more, be they living or dead.

“If it’s just, proportionate and if it’s in account of the findings of the Commission, I do feel the church needs to do reparation for this. I accept that,” he said.

In relation to a redress scheme, Dr Martin said: “I think we can show our apologies are sincere by being willing to contribute in any way we can.

“Minister O’Gorman has asked for the church to make a contribution to whatever restorative scheme is put in place.

“I do think religious congregations will be willing to play their part generously.”