DOZENS OF FAMILIES in Ireland have offered to look after baby Maria, who was found abandoned on the side of a road in Rathcoole earlier this month.

The newborn was found wrapped in a Primark fleece and Marks and Spencer bag at the gate of a field on Steelstown Lane by a couple out driving.

Eamonn Farrell A scene similar to the one which may have confronted a driver when he pulled in at this gate on the Steelstown Road, near Rathcoole. Eamonn Farrell

The Child and Family Agency Tusla was granted a care order for baby Maria days after she was found.

A spokeswoman for Tusla confirmed to TheJournal.ie that it has since received dozens of well wishes and generous offers of support for baby Maria from members of the public.

Garda Press Office Garda Press Office

In all cases, Tusla identifies an appropriate placement to suit the individual needs of each child in care.

Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald has previously said the mother has nothing to fear if she comes forward and that her welfare is the main priority.

Eamonn Farrell Eamonn Farrell

Gardaí and Tusla are asking anyone with information to contact Clondalkin Garda Station on 01 6667600, or Tusla can be contacted on 01 6206387.

Anyone who may have been on Steelstown Lane between 10am and 3pm on Friday 8 May is also asked to contact Clondalkin Garda Station if they have not already done so.

Read: Murder investigation launched as body found at same location as abandoned baby Maria identified by gardaí>

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