Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 6 February 2013
180. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has considered the possibility of a short commission of investigation into the Stardust disaster of 1981, in which 48 young people tragically lost their lives, in view of the ongoing dissatisfaction with the original investigation and findings into the horrific 1981 disaster; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6293/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will recall, Mr. Paul Coffey SC was appointed to carry out an independent examination of the case made by the Stardust Victims Committee for a renewed inquiry into the Stardust fire. The Victims Committee had a full opportunity to participate in that independent examination.
Mr. Coffey's report was published in January, 2009 and one of his conclusions was that to establish a new inquiry in the absence of any identified evidence as to the cause of the fire would be of no obvious or any forensic value and not in the public interest. Subsequently, and in keeping with Mr. Coffey's recommendations, motions were passed in both Houses of the Oireachtas placing on the record of both Houses an acknowledgement of the original Tribunal’s findings that there is no evidence that the fire was started deliberately and that the cause of the fire is unknown. In these circumstances there are no plans to establish a Commission of Investigation or other further inquiry into the cause of the fire.
