Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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1883. To ask the Minister for Children, Disability and Equality to provide a weekly progress update and schedule of expected milestones for the forensic excavation of the Tuam mother and baby home site; and the psychological and communication supports that are being provided to affected families. [44819/25]

Norma Foley (Kerry, Fianna Fail)
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In October 2022 the Government made an Order under the Institutional Burials Act 2022 to direct an intervention at the site of the former Mother and Baby institution in Tuam, Co. Galway. In March 2023 the Office of Director of Authorised Intervention, Tuam (ODAIT) was formally established and, in May 2023 the Director was appointed to oversee the excavation, recovery, analysis, identification (if possible) and dignified reburial of the children’s remains located at the Tuam site.

ODAIT is responsible for the operation of the intervention. It provides regular updates on its work to survivors and family members as well as to the general public.

Works to forensically excavate the Tuam site began in July, marking a significant milestone in the journey to provide dignity to the children who have been inappropriately interred at the site for so long.

On 29 August, the Office published an update covering the work done from 14 July to 22 August 2025. Further updates will be provided on a regular basis as the work progresses.

The Director has appointed a Family and Survivor Liaison person who is a key point of contact and in regular communication with all families and survivors who have contacted the Director’s Office. A number of supports, including counselling, are available and these are set out on the ODAIT website: odait.ie

I understand that the Director is happy to provide further information as required. The Office can be contacted at info@dait.ie.