Minister for Children Charlie Flanagan has announced that the Government will set up a Commission of Inquiry into mother and baby homes across Ireland.
Several concerns have been raised in recent days over the circumstances surrounding the homes, prompted by claims from a Galway researcher that up to 800 babies could be buried in a septic tank at the site of one of the properties in Tuam.
This was followed by reports that 300 babies in care homes across Ireland were used in experimental vaccine trials in the 60s and 70s.
According to RTE News, an investigation with full statutory powers is now to be set up but Minister Flanagan added that it "was too early to say who will lead the commission".
It is understood that the enquiry will have the power to compel witnesses to give evidence and produce documents.
