In this section, we set out the different stages of the work of ODAIT. Some but not all of these stages discussed below are sequential. The chart below sets out what we know today about the timeframe and the factors that will influence the start and the duration of each part.
We are currently taking samples from elderly and vulnerable eligible family members under the Administrative Scheme. We will take samples from other eligible family members when the Identification Programme commences.
Excavations are expected to commence in Spring 2025 and will be carried out in phased stages.
ODAIT will work with specialists such as forensic anthropologists, osteo-archaeologists, forensic odontologists and forensic geneticists to respectfully analyse and preserve remains recovered from the site.
Forensic Science Ireland will attempt to identify familial links by matching DNA profiles taken from eligible family members with those taken from recovered remains.
Throughout the intervention we will analyse information from multiple sources to gain understanding of the site, to assist in identifying relatives, and to help to individualise human remains where possible.
A panel of experts from multiple fields will compare all available data gathered and will then recommend whether remains can be formally identified as specific missing persons.
Identified remains will be returned to family members in accordance with their wishes.
An inclusive, consultative process will be launched to allow family members, survivors and the community to contribute to the form of memorialisation that will be undertaken.
Timeline
The length of time required to complete the excavation of all parts of the Site and recovery of all of the relevant human remains will only be understood as the excavation proceeds and the size and complexity of each sub-site and the volume of remains found are revealed. In 2017, the Expert Technical Group (ETG) have estimated this process should take between 12 and 24 months.
How long it will take for recovered remains to go through pre-analysis preparation and then the analysis depends on their volume and complexity. The length of these stages will in turn impact subsequent stages.
The scope of the Identification Programme (as it is referred to in the Act) will be impacted by a number of factors, three of which are: (i) the quantity and quality of DNA recoverable from the human remains; (ii) the degree of fragmentation and commingling of the human remains; and (iii) how many eligible family members come forward to provide DNA samples.