Maureen O'Sullivan (Dublin Central, Independent)
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19. To ask the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if a geo-survey of a location (details supplied) will be committed to in order to ensure the preservation of the integrity of the cemetery, especially the angels' plot; and if her attention has been drawn to the possible implications of the sale. [37990/18]

Katherine Zappone (Dublin South West, Independent)
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As the Deputy will be aware, Sean Ross Abbey is one of the institutions currently being investigated by the statutory Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes and certain related Matters.

As part of its terms of reference the Commission is directed to investigate and to make a report on burial arrangements in respect of persons who died while resident in these institutions.

It is a matter for the independent Commission to determine the methodology and approach it deems appropriate in the course of its investigations. The Commissions of Investigation Act 2004 provides the Commission with significant powers to support the conduct of its investigations.

Given the on-going work of the Commission, I have no plans to carry out any parallel or separate investigations at the site of this former institution. Any future decisions or actions will be informed by the outcome of the Commission's investigations on this and related matters.

With regard to the potential sale of any site or premises previously connected to the institutional care of unmarried mothers and their babies, the issue may not be the sale in itself, but the potential impact that might arise from a redevelopment of the site, and its effect on possible burials on the grounds on the site. Such a redevelopment could, of course, be proposed by existing owners as well as any potential new owners.

If any such a development was to be proposed, I understand there is scope within the planning process to address the existence and preservation of burial grounds and any related archaeological and heritage considerations.