Colm Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will conclude on this point. I refer to delays in the holding of inquests. I know it is outside the control of the HSE. In fairness, the vast majority of coroners are extremely efficient and good. In some parts of the country, there are substantial delays in the holding of inquests by coroners. It is not because of a lack of information from the HSE. There is no statutory requirement on coroners to hold inquests within a certain timeframe. I suggest that such a requirement needs to be put in place in the interests of everyone working in the HSE, especially staff members who are at the coalface dealing with the relatives of people who have died. It is something that should be examined. If there is a need to change the relevant legislation, that should be set out. I will leave it at that. I thank Mr. O'Brien for the time and effort he is devoting to dealing with this area. I know he has brought about many changes which are for everyone's benefit. I think we need to do a few more things to bring the service up to what we require.