A number of concerns have been raised following reports that the former Bessborough Mother and Baby Home in Cork is being put up for sale by the religious order which owns the site.

Sinn Féin Spokesperson for Children and Youth Affairs, Deputy Denise Mitchell, said she does not believe the homes should be sold until a full investigation has been carried out.

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She said: "We saw with the awful discovery of a mass grave at Tuam mother and baby home and how shocking evidence may only come to light decades later.

"I would be very worried that vital evidence could be lost if the lands are developed. There are reports from survivors that claim not all of the babies who died at Bessborough were buried at the small angels plot in Glasnevin Cemetery.

"The terms of reference of the current investigation are far too narrow. We want to establish the full truth into what went on in these homes, the truth about the awful treatment of women and their babies, and we also want to see appropriate redress fully implemented for survivors."

(CD/MH)