Mr Daniel MacSweeney was appointed in May 2023 by the Minister as the Director of the Office of Authorised Intervention, Tuam (ODAIT).
The first 18 months is focused on establishing an independent, respected Office supported and understood by families, survivors and their advocates; an Office capable of delivering a process that meets international forensic standards and best practice, with good governance, and positioned to begin appropriate excavation and forensic analysis as soon as possible.
2024 updates
- In late November and early December 2024 preliminary surveys were conducted at the site. The preliminary works are crucial to helping ODAIT plan the full excavation given the unique complexity of this work and of the site.
- Following a tender process for the civil engineering and construction elements of the site excavation, a successful supplier was appointed in September 2024.
- DNA samples continue to be taken as part of the Administrative Scheme (for eligible individuals who are vulnerable and elderly. The full identification programme will open in 2025.
- On 27 June 2024, a tender was issued for ‘Multi-disciplinary Consultancy Services’ to draft a specification for the civil engineering and construction elements of the site excavation.
- In March 2024, ODAIT we received a Preliminary Engineering Report to support archaeological excavations.
- Following a tender process, ODAIT appointed researchers in January 2024. The work of these researchers is ongoing.
- Since 2023, ODAIT and the Office of Public Works have been working together to secure, prepare and equip appropriate premises to undertake multidisciplinary scientific analyses. ODAIT has consulted with international experts and other similar projects (e.g. UN Committee on Missing Persons in Cyprus) dealing with the analysis and identification of skeletal remains to aid in the development of necessary procedures and protocols that best address the specific needs of this project. ODAIT is defining the forensic data management needs of the project and putting in place a data management system and tool.
- The ODAIT team continues to grow adding skills in operations, procurement and communications.
2023 updates
- In October 2023, the first DNA sample was taken under the Administrative Scheme (for those eligible individuals who are vulnerable and elderly). Samples continue to be taken.
- ODAIT recruited a forensic geneticist to assist in establishing the Identification Programme and to advise on all aspects related to DNA testing.
- Ongoing coordination between ODAIT and Forensic Science Ireland to prepare for the Identification Programme stage of the project.
- Building a team to support the administration and delivery of the project including skills and support in procurement, finance, governance and operations.
