The remains of an additional eight infants have been recovered at the site of the former Mother and Baby Home in Tuam.
They were all buried in coffins.
It brings to 77 the total number of infant remains recovered from the site since the project began last July.
An update on the forensic excavation has been issued by the Office of the Director of Authorised Intervention.
It covers the work completed during April and May.
In April it as decided to include first cousins as eligible family members.
Officials are now working with the Office of the Attorney General to draft the necessary amendments to the Institutional Burials Legislation.
ODAIT has been in contact with some first cousins and is putting the initial steps in place so that samples may be taken without delay once it is permitted under the legislation.
Today's statement says the team will continue to reach out to first cousins as part of this process.
