Catherine Byrne (Dublin South Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have taken note of what the Senator said. I concur with the reply from the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality to the effect that the current cohort of coroners strive to offer the best possible service within the confines of the existing administrative framework. The Department agrees that there is a need to get on with a long-term plan to modernise the system. The aim is to move from the original 19th century approach to one that is suitable for the 21st century. The new coroner service must provide for a better service in the nature and speed of its response to persons touched by deaths reported to the coroner.

The Senator made particular reference to the death of babies and argued that some cases are not taken seriously enough. I agree with him in that regard. I again thank the Senator. I have taken notes on his contribution and will bring them to the attention of the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, Deputy Frances Fitzgerald.