The operators of the mother-and-baby home in Tuam say they are "shocked and deeply saddened" by the discovery of a mass grave near the site.
The Sisters of Bon Secours say they welcome the government's announcement to set up an investigation into the discovery of the mass grave with up to 800 remains.
The minister responsible for the investigation says the Government response's will consider the prospect of other mass graves elsewhere around the country.
Our political correspondent Gavan Reilly reports.