Meet little Maria: Gardaí release first photo of baby abandoned in Dublin

Gardaí have issued the first photograph of baby Maria, the infant found abandoned on a Dublin lay-by almost two weeks ago. Sleeping peacefully in the arms of a carer, the child shows no outward signs of her tough start in life. Investigating officers have now made three appeals for the child's mother to come forward. Last week a number of items found near the child, including a blanket, a black bag and a towel, were put on display in the hope they may jog somebody's memory. According to child protection officer Sergeant Maeve O'Sullivan:

"We are releasing this photograph so Mum can see her little baby girl and we would ask Mum to please contact us. It has been 12 days since the discovery of the baby and we wish to thank the public for their assistance."

An Garda Síochaná and Tusla continue to liaise closely and anyone with information is asked to contact Clondalkin Garda Station on 01-6667600, or Tusla on 01-6206387. Gardaí are appealing for anyone who may have been on Steelstown Lane between 10am and 3pm on Friday May 8 to contact Clondalkin Garda Station.