Garda concerned for mother after discovery of foetus

Gardaí say they are concerned for the welfare of a mother after a 13-week-old foetus was discovered.

A member of the public alerted officers to the remains yesterday evening.

Medical tests were carried out in Letterkenny General Hospital where doctors were able to establish how far into pregnancy the woman may have been.

The discovery was made in the greater area of Dunkineely at about 5.15pm yesterday.

A Garda spokesman appealed for anyone with information to contact officers in Ballyshannon station where the matter will be dealt with sensitively.

“We are concerned for the welfare of the mother as she may need vital medical attention.

“We would ask that anybody with information comes forward and they will be treated in the strictest of confidence,” he said.

Gardaí said they were keeping an open mind on whether the mother was local or a visitor to the area.

Supt Leo McGinn said: “The discovery was made just after the bank holiday weekend so it is not possible to say at this stage whether the mother was local or a visitor.

“Many visitors are attracted to that area.

“Our main interest is finding the mother and ensuring that she is properly cared for.”

He added that doctors were checking patient lists, and the HSE had been notified.

HSE West said last night: “The HSE is aware of the Garda investigation in the greater Dunkineely area, but has no role in that process.

“The HSE is available to provide assistance and support to any individual, if or when required.”