An additional twenty-two sets of infant human remains have been recovered from the site of a former institution in Tuam, County Galway. This institution had served unmarried mothers and their children.
The recovery of these remains increases the total number of human remains found at the site to thirty-three. The institution in Tuam gained international attention in 2014. This occurred after local historian Catherine Corless discovered 796 death certificates for children and babies who had died there, yet no corresponding burial records existed.
Hand excavation has continued in an area identified in historical documents. This area is designated as a “burial ground.” To date, all remains recovered from this specific area consist of infants interred within coffins.
Forensic analysis is currently underway. The infants found were all buried at the site during the period the home operated, which spanned from 1925 to 1961.
The Office of the Director of Authorised Intervention in Tuam (ODAIT) also uncovered a pit. This pit, measuring over three meters in width, disturbed the identified “burial ground.” The depth of this pit will be determined during further excavation. The pit contains modern building debris, consistent with the post-institutional era.
In an update provided on Friday, the ODAIT stated that the latest evidence uncovered related to the period between November 29, 2025, and January 28, 2026. In the former yard area, the entire space has now been forensically resolved, indicated by a blue marking. Work continues in the well shaft and its connected drains.
The ODAIT has taken a total of twenty-eight DNA samples from relatives of individuals who died at the home. Currently, over sixty-five cases are being processed to determine eligibility. Arrangements are being made to collect samples from these individuals in the coming weeks.
The institution in Tuam was owned by Galway County Council and operated by the religious order, the Bon Secours Sisters. The order has previously acknowledged that children and infants were buried in a manner described as “disrespectful and unacceptable,” and has offered an apology. They have contributed £2.14 million towards the cost of the excavation.
Galway County Council also issued an apology in 2021 for “failing mothers and children” following an inquiry report. The excavation process is anticipated to continue until 2027. Subsequent follow-up work is expected to extend for several more years.