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An Garda Síochána via Facebook
Baby Maria

Gardaí release first photo of newborn baby who was abandoned in Dublin

They have released the image so the baby girl’s mother can see her as they appeal for her to come forward.

GARDAÍ HAVE RELEASED an image of a newborn baby who was abandoned in Rathcoole, Co Dublin earlier this month.

The baby girl, who has been named Maria by the people caring for her, was found by a couple 12 days ago at the gate of a field on Steelstown Lane. Today gardaí renewed their appeal for her mother to come forward.

In a statement, gardaí said they have received a number of calls from the public and all these calls have been followed up on, but the mother has not yet contacted them or the child and family agency, Tusla.

Speaking today, Sergeant Maeve O’ Sullivan, of the Child Protection Unit in Clondalkin, said:

We are releasing this photograph so Mum can see her little baby girl and we would ask Mum to contact us so she can come see her.

Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald has previously said the mother has nothing to fear if she comes forward and that her welfare is the main priority.

The gardaí are concerned for her welfare and I am concerned about her welfare. I would appeal for her to come forward and get help.

Gardaí and Tusla are asking anyone with information to contact Clondalkin Garda Station on 01 6667600, or Tusla can be contacted on 01 6206387. Anyone who may have been on Steelstown Lane between 10am and 3pm on Friday 8 May is also asked to contact Clondalkin Garda Station if they have not already done so.

Originally published at 4.14pm

Read: Gardaí appeal to newborn Maria’s mum: “Come and see your baby in the hospital”>