GARDAÍ HAVE appealed to the mother of a foetus found on a road in Donegal to come forward in confidence in order to undergo medical treatment.
The foetus, which is understood to be between 12 and 16 weeks old, was discovered on Tuesday evening by a woman when she left her house at Brenter, Dunkineely, Co Donegal.
The woman saw what she believed were pieces of a foetus at the bottom of her drive and on the road beside her house.
Gardaí and a doctor were called to the scene and confirmed it was a human foetus. It was taken to Letterkenny General Hospital for post mortem and the office of the Donegal South coroner Dr Diarmuid Hegarty was contacted.
The area where the foetus was found is a rural spot but has a number of houses and holiday cottages in the vicinity. Gardaí believe the foetus had not been at the scene for long and are concerned for the welfare of the mother, whose identity is unknown.
Garda sources stressed that the focus of local officers is on the welfare and health of the mother. They said she would be treated in confidence and with respect if she came forward.
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 doctors were checking patient lists, and the Health Service Executive had been notified. HSE West said last night: “The HSE is available to provide assistance and support to any individual.”
