asked the Minister for Justice whether he is aware that the bodies of persons, who have been killed in road accidents, have been left for several hours on the roadside because of the existing regulations in the matter, and if he will make a statement.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Road Accident Regulations.
I am not aware of any statutory regulations of the nature referred to in the question.
If the Deputy informs me of any instance where the removal of a dead body from the scene of an accident was delayed unduly I will have the case investigated with a view to establishing the cause.
Is the Minister aware that in the case of accidents the bodies cannot be moved by the local authority ambulances? In many cases they are left lying on the roads until the Gardaí authorities decide what to do with them. Is the Minister also aware that the regulation seems to be that the dead body should be taken to the nearest public-house? Is it not time that that regulation was changed?
I am not aware that any such thing takes place. The first person on the scene of an accident generally tries to get spiritual or medical aid and therefore the removal may be delayed.
If I give the Minister the information which he seeks, will he take some action in the matter?
I will promise to investigate the matter and give the Deputy a reply. There may be some explanation of it.