Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 13 May 2003

Vol. 566 No. 3

Written Answers. - Death Certificates.

Ruairí Quinn

Question:

417 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has had consultations, or if there are communications between his Department and that of the county coroners regarding practices which they have insisted upon being adhered to by medical practitioners when completing medical certificates on the cause of death pursuant to the Births and Deaths Registration Act (Ireland) 1880, with particular regard to giving a detailed description of the antecedent causes of death which can, in certain circumstances, have a negating effect on pension and other death grant benefits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13000/03]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that a coroner has a role in advising medical practitioners in relation to the completion of medical certificates on the cause of death pursuant to the Births and Deaths Registration Act (Ireland) 1880. This role is an advisory role only. The coroner advises on the completion of medical certificates in accordance with the relevant legislation and it is then a matter for the medical practitioner to complete the death certificate. As responsibility for this legislation comes under the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Health and Children, any problems arising out of the application of the legislation would be a matter for the Minister for Health and Children.