Brian O'Shea
Ceist:305 Mr. O'Shea asked the Minister for Health and Children the proposals he has to grant a statutory inquiry to Parents for Justice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12598/03]
Written Answers. - Tribunals of Inquiry.
On 4 April 2000 the Government decided to establish a non-statutory inquiry which would review post mortem policy, practice and procedure in the State since 1970 particularly relating to organ removal, retention and disposal by reference to prevailing standards both in and outside of the State.
The inquiry, chaired by Ms Anne Dunne SC, is proceeding with its investigative work and I expect to receive the first report which will deal with post mortem issues in paediatric hospitals around the end of the year. This will be followed by further reports on maternity and general hospitals.
When I receive the chairman's report, I intend to table a motion that the inquiry report be presented to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Health and Children. If it transpires that it is not possible for the Oireachtas committee to pursue the matter, whether as a result of the Supreme Court judgment in the Abbeylara case or otherwise, I am committed to ensuring that it is done through another appropriate forum, with statutory powers.