Galway Bay fm newsroom - Minister Katherine Zappone says any further excavations at the site of the former mother and baby home in Tuam will be decided by Galway County Council and the coroner for North Galway.
It follows the discovery of significant quantities of human remains at the site during a test excavation.
In a statement, the Mother and Baby Homes Commission of Investigation says the excavation discovered the remains in an underground structure consisting of 20 chambers.
It says it's shocked by the discovery and will continue it's investigation into who was responsible for the disposal of human remains in this way.
It says analysis of recovered samples suggest the remains date from the timeframe of the operation of the Mother and Baby Home between 1925 and 1961.
Radiocarbon dating has revealed the age of the individuals tested range from 35 weeks to 3 years.
Galway East TD Sean Canney says the next step is a public consultation process to discuss the best way forward while local historian Catherine Corless says it's a relief that the truth is finally emerging.
The state inquiry into mother and baby homes has confirmed 'significant quantities' of human remains were discovered at a site in Tuam, Co Galway.
The remains were found in what is understood to be a septic tank at the former Bon Secours home.
It says a sample of the remains show they were aged between 35 foetal weeks, and 2-3 years.
A public helpline has been set up for anyone who may be affected, and can be reached at 01 6473118.
Children's minister Katherine Zappone says the news is sad and disturbing, but not unexpected:
