After 67 years, the search for two missing Bessborough babies goes on
The sister of two missing twins from the Bessborough mother and baby institution is calling for continued investigation into the site's history. Despite government interest in purchasing the land, recent planning approval for apartments on the site has caused significant distress among survivor communities.
Why it matters
It highlights the ongoing struggle for justice and historical accountability regarding Ireland's mother and baby homes and the treatment of vulnerable women and children.
Sat, 18 Jul, 2026 - 06:05 Donal O’Keeffe
The sister of twin babies missing for 67 years from a former Cork mother and baby institution has said that, despite an intervention from Taoiseach Micheál Martin on the future of the former Bessborough lands, “the work is only beginning”.
Mr Martin said on Friday that he has asked Cork City Council to engage with the owners of the grounds of the former mother and Baby institution to “explore all options for the future of the site”.
It is believed that the Government is willing to financially support Cork City Council in purchasing the Bessborough land, should negotiations with the landowners prove successful.
Last week, An Coimisiún Pleanála gave the green light for 106 apartments to be built on the site of the former mother and baby home.
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