Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 30 April 2014
282. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection if it is possible for a person to apply for a modified version of the cause of death to be entered on a death certificate of a relative, for example, where suicide is the cause of death the addition of the words "by hanging" can cause distress; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [19327/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe loss of a family member in any circumstances is an extremely tragic event and I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to those families who have lost a loved one through suicide.
Under sections 41 and 42 of the Civil Registration Act 2004 a coroner or a medical practitioner provides the required particulars of a death, including cause of death, in order that the death can be registered in the register of deaths. The death certificate is a copy of an entry in the register and must include the details as laid out in that entry including cause of death.
I am very much aware that the cause of death contained in some death certificates can cause distress to loved ones and in this regard I will introduce within the coming weeks, by regulation, a short form death certificate that will omit the cause of death. I hope that this will provide some comfort to families where the details of the cause of death registered are upsetting.
