Keaveney calls for Tuam babies site to be sealed off immediately

Galway East Deputy Colm Keaveney has called for the immediate sealing off of the site in Tuam where it’s alleged that the remains of hundreds of babies were dumped.

Deputy Keaveney said he is appalled that members of the public and the media are free to roam around the site, interfere with it and carry out unauthorised ‘investigations’ of their own.

“There have been dozens of reporters, apparent engineers and members of the public on this site for the past few days.  No attempt has been made to seal the area off or secure it in any way to ensure that it is not contaminated,” said Deputy Keaveney.

“I welcome the fact that the Justice Minister has now contacted the Garda Commissioner about the extremely serious and distressing reports that this site was used as a mass grave for up to 800 infants.  Given that contact has now been made with the gardaí, it is imperative that urgent steps are taken to ensure that the site is not contaminated.

“This story has gained worldwide attention and we have had international media at the site as well as domestic media and a number of other interested parties.  I believe that the site will need to be forensically examined by the State Pathologist and appointed experts in this field.  Until this forensic expertise is brought in an official capacity, it’s essential that the site is preserved.

“The failure to take immediate action to seal off the area is further evidence of the Government’s disjointed approach to this issue.  We need the Taoiseach to take a strategic leadership role in bringing together all the Government Departments and State agencies with an interest in this, so we can establish the facts and take decisive action as quickly and thoroughly as possible.”