Gardaí are investigating the circumstances surrounding the discovery of a human hand at a school in north Dublin.
It is believed the body part, which is badly decomposed, had been dropped by a bird into the school yard at around 10.30am.
There were no children in the school as it was closed for the midterm break.
The human limb was not discovered until around 12.30pm and gardaí were alerted.
Detectives checked CCTV in the area and the scene was technically examined before the hand was removed for a forensic examination.
Forensic Science Ireland will carry out DNA tests to seek to identify the person involved.
Gardaí say they are keeping an open mind and will pursue any lines of inquiry.
There is no indication of anything sinister at this stage.
The hand could have been carried by seabirds from the coast and detectives will also check the missing persons register.
Gardaí also say they are making inquiries as part of the investigation into reports that a child in north Dublin sustained serious hand injuries last night.
They believe the child was injured when a nitrous oxide, 'fast gas', cannister exploded.
They are liaising with the hospital where the child is being treated and also seeking DNA.
In a statement, gardaí said they "were alerted to the discovery of partial human remains at a premises in Darndale, Dublin 17, this afternoon".
"A scene is currently being held and the State Pathologist has been notified, in line with standard practice.
"The remains will be removed for examination and DNA analysis, which will assist gardaí in confirming the identity and determine the course of the investigation.
"Enquiries are ongoing," the statement said.
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