Averil Power (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

We support this amendment in respect of the Coroners Acts. In general the lack of support for families and people who have to face inquests is dreadful. It is a very stressful process. Many families find it bewildering as they have not been party to an inquest previously, particularly when there have been tragic circumstances relating to a death within a family. There is a desperate need for a broader service. I welcome the amendment as a first step in that direction but I encourage the Minister to progress the wider view as soon as possible.

I share the concerns raised by Senator Trevor Ó Clochartaigh about the amendments in general. At very short notice we have been presented with a list which is longer than the Bill. While many of them do not appear to raise major issues I am concerned at having to debate them without the opportunity to consult with various interest groups, take advice and vote on them today. Similarly, we may well raise issues on Report Stage. In general, it is a positive Bill, particularly in regard to the family law aspects and opening up reporting in the system should help to greatly improve confidence and transparency in family law. I wish we had a longer period before Committee Stage and I hope Report Stage does not appear on the schedule for next Tuesday or Wednesday. I urge that sufficient time is allowed between now and Report Stage in order that we can reflect on the issues properly.