Gardaí say the body of a newborn baby found in a recycling centre in County Wicklow yesterday could have come from anywhere in Ireland.

Detectives investigating the case say they are concerned for the child's mother who they have promised to treat sensitively.

A worker at the Greenstar waste plant near Bray discovered the remains of the newborn baby girl at around 11.00am yesterday morning while sorting recyclable waste.

A post mortem will be carried out today, along with a full search at the waste facility.

Gardaí say there does not appear to be any injuries to the infant, who may have been still-born.

It is understood gardaí are approaching the matter as a personal tragedy.

Greenstar takes waste from all over the country, so gardaí have issued a nationwide appeal.

Superintendent Pat Ward from Bray Garda Station says they are making an appeal for anybody with information in relation to anybody who may have been in distress during pregnancy.

Speaking to Pat Kenny, Superintendent Ward explained that "the preliminary examination would suggest the baby was born fairly recently.

"The baby is a female, we believe the baby is Caucasian. We're not quite sure then what part of the country the baby might be from. We're making inquiries on the basis the baby could be from any part of the country," he explained.

Conor Feehan is a journalist with the Herald and Independent newspapers.

He told Newstalk Breakfast the investigation is wide-ranging.

Anybody with information can contact Bray Garda Station on 01-666-5300.

Meanwhile, a dedicated helpline has been established by the Child and Family Agency, Tusla, in response to the discovery of the baby's body.

Tusla says the phone line will be manned by experienced professional staff who will provide all support necessary should the mother call.

The helpline number is 076-695-8400.