First Cousins to be Included in Tuam Mother and Baby Home DNA Identification Program

First cousins of children believed to be buried at the former Tuam mother and baby home will soon be eligible for the identification program. This follows a forensic science development confirming that first cousin DNA may be sufficient for identification, a change from previous assumptions that DNA variation was too great due to the common grandparent ancestor.

Children’s Minister Norma Foley announced that the government is amending the Institutional Burials Act 2022. Cabinet approved drafting these amendments today, which will be introduced to the Houses of Oireachtas as soon as possible. This update responds to new scientific advice from Forensic Science Ireland, enabling the inclusion of first cousins in the Tuam Identification Programme.