Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Colm Burke for raising this matter. It is distressing when the remains of deceased people are sometimes discovered on land or washed ashore on our coasts, as in the case mentioned by the Senator. The relevant State authorities make every effort to identify such people by whatever means possible. I am informed by coroners that fortunately there are very few cases in which remains cannot be identified within a foreseeable timeframe. The discovery of skeletal remains or bones, usually as a result of construction activity, happens more frequently.

The Senator is proposing that I should establish a new section for unidentified human remains as a means of centralising information and streamlining the identification process. He has previously submitted to me a proposal from a well-respected forensic anthropologist that a forensic human remains identification specialist position should be established and located within the ambit of the Department. It is proposed that such a specialist would centralise information and provide a service in respect of the identification of discovered bodies or parts of bodies. It is argued that this could help to co-ordinate the expertise required and be of greater assistance to the families of missing people. I have asked the various relevant divisions and agencies within my departmental remit to examine the proposal carefully. This consideration is now under way. The initial feedback I have received suggests that consideration must be given to whether the establishment of a separate section, with attendant costs or impacts on the work of other agencies concerned, represents the best use of available resources. Statutory changes could also be required.

I am informed that there is no evidence to suggest that there are major deficiencies in the handling and ultimate identification of human remains. Most such remains are ultimately identified. I would be happy to engage further with Senator Colm Burke on these issues. I recognise that families and relations of people who go missing for long periods of time have their hopes raised when discoveries are reported. We must ensure that all possible measures are taken to identify the deceased when remains are discovered. I commend Senator Burke on his efforts to enhance the identification of unidentified remains. He has done a great deal of work to advance proposals to allow families to manage the affairs of missing people. His Private Members' Bill in that regard has passed all Stages in the Seanad and is awaiting Second Stage in the Dáil. I hope we can report progress on that issue in the coming weeks. If the Bill is enacted, it will be of considerable assistance to the families of people who have gone missing. I have indicated that I will do everything I can to facilitate its passage.