The long-awaited forensic excavation has officially begun at the former “mother and baby home” in County Galway, Ireland, where the remains of approximately 800 infants were discovered. The site, which had been closed for over 60 years, is now the focus of a significant investigation into the tragic history of the children who died there between 1925 and 1961.
The infants’ remains were reportedly dumped into a former sewage tank, referred to as “the pit,” after their deaths at the institution. Local historian Catherine Corless, who first uncovered the disturbing evidence, became a key figure in bringing attention to the dark secret of the home.
Andrew Downes/ ODAIT/ PA Wire
A Hidden Tragedy Revealed
Corless’s investigation began after two 12-year-old boys discovered human bones in a septic tank, which led her to further investigate the site. Her findings, which were made public in 2014, revealed the horrific fate of the children who had died at the home, many of whom were born to women who fell pregnant outside of marriage—a social taboo in Ireland at the time.
The “mother and baby home” housed women who were often sent there by their families, where they were separated from their babies. Most of the infants were either given up for adoption or died in the institution under tragic circumstances.
Shocking Discoveries
Corless expressed her relief to Sky News after the excavation process finally began. “It’s been a long, long journey,” she said. “Not knowing what’s going to happen, if it’s just going to fall apart or if it’s really going to happen.”
The discovery of the babies’ remains shocked Ireland, sparking public outrage and highlighting the dark history of these institutions. A 2021 investigation revealed that across Ireland, around 9,000 children died in 18 similar “mother and baby homes,” where unmarried women were sent to give birth. These homes were operated by Catholic institutions, and many of the children who died were not given proper care or treatment.
Local historian Catherine Corless/ Photo by Niall Carson/PA Images via Getty Images
The Role of the Church and Apologies
Corless, who has dedicated years to uncovering the truth, criticized the Church for its hypocrisy, as it preached to care for the vulnerable yet excluded illegitimate children. The Sisters of Bon Secours, the Catholic order of nuns responsible for operating the Tuam home, later expressed their “profound apologies” for their role in the tragedy.
“I never, ever understand how they could do that to little babies, little toddlers,” Corless said after hearing the apology. “Beautiful little vulnerable children.”
A Dark Chapter in Ireland’s History
The excavation of the 800 infants’ remains marks a crucial step in uncovering the full truth about these homes and bringing justice to the victims. The Irish government, along with local historians and advocates, is continuing to seek answers and accountability for the horrific abuse that took place.
Andrew Downes/ ODAIT/ PA Wire
This excavation serves as a painful reminder of the hidden suffering endured by countless individuals in these institutions and the need for acknowledgment and reconciliation.
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