Pat Buckley (Cork East, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

It was stated that the then Minister of State's response was very wishy-washy. It stated that requests such as this are of a very sensitive and delicate nature. It does not say to who. It goes on to say that there are a number of matters to consider, both in terms of the significant practicalities involved and the ethical issues. What practicalities? It does not say. What ethical issues? That should be gone out the window because the family members have no concerns. Let us scrap that part.

It goes on to state that there would be practical issues involved in positively identifying the remains. We have all heard how things have changed with DNA, you name it. If the National Graves Association removes those slabs and starts scanning, it will probably identify the five bodies before anything happens. What are the chances of having five, six or seven? It is specifically detailed. Significant records have been kept. I cannot understand how any Department or any Minister of State can use the fancy terms and the big words to be dismissive. There are no ethical issues when family members are saying they want this done. The fact the association has a plot in Glasnevin means it is not going to be overly complicated. I am hopeful that we should get a proper response from the Taoiseach. This is common sense. Technology has evolved so much now. When it can be done for the likes of Thomas Kent, it should be done for everybody. It is part of our history and our culture and it is not about hiding something. In regard to this craic of not taking responsibility for making decisions, what is wrong with assisting family members with their request to have these people interred where they should be and not where they are lying now? That is all I have to say. I thank the Chair.