Sniffer, I would appreciate it if you could list your sources .

My understanding is and has been that the premises may have had altruistic and philanthropic intentions as had the concept of workhouses, ( and also to an extent debtors prisons) but the reality was I believe somewhat different for the many women and girls who passed through the doors.
Have a look at the film, the Magdalene Sisters, the next time its on on Film 4, or better still, order it from your local video shop. Magdalene Laundries were also for many years portrayed in Ireland as saviours of fallen women.