Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 5 November 2024
716. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Justice if she can confirm, in light of previous guarantees, that though Dublin coroners will be classed as civil servants from February 2025, their independence will be secured; what written guarantees are currently in place to ensure the independence of Dublin coroners; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [44075/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Coroners (Amendment) Act 2024, which the President signed into law on 16 February 2024, is intended to ensure continuity of coroner services in the Dublin district.
Section 2 of the Act provides that the Minister for Justice, with the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform, stipulates the terms and conditions under which appointments of coroners for the Dublin district will be made. This section further provides for coroners in the Dublin district to be appointed as civil servants of the State.
Officials in my Department worked closely with officials in the Office of the Attorney General to ensure that the appointment of coroners as civil servants of the State would not impinge on the independent role of the coroner under the Coroners Act 1962.
I am satisfied that the designation of a coroner as a “Civil Servant of the State” is not inconsistent with the independent nature of the office. I can assure the Deputy that there is no intention to undermine the independence of the role in this Act, or indeed as part of the wider reform programme.
On the 21 February 2024, three coroners were appointed on a temporary basis for a twelve-month period. Discussions are continuing with DPENDPR in relation to recruitment of salaried coroners to the Dublin district as provided for in the Act.
