Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 19 January 2022
1206. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice the provision in place for a venue for the Stardust inquest beyond February 2022; if details have been communicated to the families in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [63183/21]
View answer1284. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice if a venue has been secured for the Stardust Inquest; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1914/22]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 1206 and 1284 together.
The Stardust fire was a national tragedy that has left a particular legacy of pain for many people in North Dublin.
I offer my deep sympathy and condolences to the families of the 48 young people killed in the Stardust fire over forty years ago.
I also recognise the impact on everyone who attended that night and the impact on the local community and I am committed to ensuring that the new inquests into the Stardust deaths and the families involved are provided with all relevant supports.
During 2021 a bespoke courtroom was built in the RDS to facilitate the Stardust inquests and the contract is due to expire in February 2022.
My Department and I recognise that this is a sensitive situation and would like to assure the families that we are committed to ensuring a new venue is in place to permit the public inquests to be commenced by the Dublin Coroner.
The families can be assured that the matter is being actively worked on with the assistance of the Office of Public Works, and I intend that the situation will be resolved as soon as possible.
My Department continues to engage with the coroner and her team and the coroner will provide any updates on the stardust fire inquests website at: www.stardustfireinquests.
