Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 11 April 2024
168. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Justice the complaints procedure that exists in relation to the role of coroners; if a procedure is not in existence, if she would consider introducing one; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15786/24]
View answerCoroners are independent office holders whose core function is to investigate sudden and unexplained deaths so that a death certificate can be issued. Neither I, nor my Department have any role in the coronial function.
Currently, there is no established complaint procedure in respect of the Coronial function. A person who is dissatisfied with a decision of a Coroner may, however, apply to the High Court for leave to apply for a Judicial Review (JR) of that decision.
I would also like to draw the Deputy's attention to the Coroner Service website, which may provide further insight into the coronial death investigation function.
On 20 October 2023, I launched a wide-ranging consultation to inform the development of proposals for comprehensive reform of the Coroner Service in Ireland, which closed on 19 January 2024.
The consultation provided an opportunity for members of the public, stakeholder groups and members of the Oireachtas to express their views, express observations and provide proposals on how the Coroner Service might be enhanced into the future.
I am pleased to say that there was a very high level of public engagement in the consultation process with approximately 250 submissions received across both surveys. Departmental officials are currently analysing the information gathered during the consultation process with a view to bring forward proposals for the reform the Coroner Service.
