Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I used the opportunity presented by Pope Francis's recent visit to Ireland to raise directly with him the issue of mother and baby homes and more specifically the discovery of human remains in Tuam. I outlined the serious concerns that I and others had, particularly the concerns of people within the context of Tuam such as the survivors and their families. I told him that I would write to him further with the details. In my letter I set out the background to the establishment of the commission.

I informed him of the belief that there are a significant number of children's remains at the site. Above all, and I suppose this is what the Deputy is referring to, I believe and I outlined to him that the church should contribute substantially to the cost of whatever option is decided by the Government. I am still awaiting a reply from Pope Francis. Regardless, my belief is that the church should contribute substantially and should do so willingly, unconditionally and quickly.

See this speech in context