Gardaí are investigating the discovery of the remains of a baby boy in a shallow grave in north-west Co Mayo yesterday.
The remains were found around 2 p.m. in the townland of Kilgalligan, Carrowtigue, about 12 miles from Belmullet, when youths spotted a bag protruding from the ground on a stretch of commonage.The youngsters told their parents, who alerted gardaí.
An initial examination showed that the infant was born full term and had not been long in the makeshift burial place.
Chief Supt Tony McNamara said last night he was concerned about the health of the mother and appealed to her to come forward.
"I can give her a personal assurance that she will be treated with the utmost compassion," he said.
The remains were found on a patch of ground in the centre of Kilgalligan, a village of about 25 houses overlooking the sea on the side of a hillside.
The local community is shocked by the discovery and few local people were willing to talk about it yesterday.
Father Liam Reilly, a curate in Kilcommon, said last night the whole area was shocked by the discovery and there was tremendous concern for the health and well-being of the mother.
"Our thoughts are with the mother who is going through a very difficult time both physically and from a mental viewpoint. I hope she comes forward immediately," he said.