Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 November 2016
217. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if her attention has been drawn to concerns raised that an area under current excavation (details supplied) does not include underground cesspits which may also contain remains; if the commission is aware of such concerns; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [33111/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware that the Mother and Baby Homes Commission is conducting a test excavation at the site of the Children's Burial Ground/Memorial Garden located in the Dublin Road Housing Estate, Tuam, Co. Galway. The Commission has publicly stated that a sample of the site is being excavated to resolve a number of queries that the Commission has in relation to the interment of human remains at this location. The Commission has also clarified that only a fraction of the site will be excavated through test trenches, the locations of which have been informed by a Geophysical Survey carried out at the site in October 2015.
It is important to stress that the statutory Commission is independent in the conduct of its investigations. It has significant legal powers to assist in these enquiries. Therefore, the precise approach to its investigation is a matter for the Commission to decide and progress. I do not have any role or influence in these decisions.
If the Deputy, or any person, has information which they believe can assist the investigation, then I would encourage them to contact the Commission directly by email at info@mbhcoi.ie or on the confidential freephone number at 1800 80-66-88.
