A post-mortem is due to take place today on the body of a new-born baby found on a beach in Co Kerry yesterday afternoon.
The body was discovered at about 3.15 p.m. by a tourist couple who were walking along a remote cove at Rossbeigh beach, near Glenbeigh in the south of the county. It was partly submerged in sand and half-clothed.
Gardai sealed off the scene and carried out a technical examination, which lasted a number of hours, until the area became covered by the tide.
According to a Garda spokesman, an initial examination indicated that the baby - which was found about 100 metres from the water - had been dead for more than one day.
A cause and time of death, will not be known until the Assistant State Pathologist, Dr Marie Cassidy, carries out the post-mortem today at Tralee General Hospital.
The beach known locally as the "back strand" is popular with caravans and campers, and was busy during the recent fine spell. However it is not the main swimming and bathing area of Rossbeigh beach. The body was found some distance form where caravans usually park.
Gardai in Cahirciveen who are investigating the incident have also yet to establish whether the baby was left at the scene or washed ashore. They have appealed for the baby's mother to come forward and have said she will be dealt with in a sympathetic and compassionate fashion.
Anyone with information can contact Cahirciveen Station at (066) 9472111.