23/10/2013

DNA Samples Collected From Roma Families In Child Disputes

Two children removed from Roma families are to undergo DNA testing to establish if they are related to the families they were found with.

A 7-year-old girl was taken from a Roma family in Tallaght on Monday evening and is currently in the care of the Health Service Executive.

DNA samples have been collected from the family, who claim that the child is theirs. Results are expected later today.

In a separate case a 2-year-old boy was removed from another Roma family in the midlands on Tuesday night following a report to gardaí by a member of the public.

However the child was returned to the family this morning following enquiries.

It is understood that DNA testing will also be carried out on the child and the family.

Both families are understood to be co-operating with the inquiries.

(MH/CD)


Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

14 March 2024
Alliance Calls For Action To Protect Young People Online
The Alliance Party has called for action to help young people faced with blackmail or similar situations online.
01 July 2014
Ombudsman Report Due On Roma Children Removed From Families
A report into the removal of two Roma children from their families in Dublin and Westmeath is to be published today. The report by Children's Ombudsman Emily Logan looks into the removal of a 7-year-old girl in Tallaght and a two-year-old boy in Athlone.
14 March 2024
Working Families Urged To Explore Childcare Savings Ahead Of Holidays
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) has called on working families who have yet to sign up for Tax-Free Childcare to find out how they could save money on their childcare costs in time for the school holidays.
30 June 2008
Minister Advises Parents To Apply For Grants
The Irish Minister for Family Affairs has announced families eligible for back-to-school grants should apply now or risk losing their entitlements. Over 190,000 primary and post-primary pupils are expected to benefit from the €46 million scheme this year.
08 October 2012
Fishermen's Families Offer To Fund DNA Testing
The families of Irish fishermen lost at sea have agreed to help pay for DNA tests on bones which were found of the southeast coast. The announcement comes amid uncertainty over whether the Irish government would be willing to fund the examinations.