Roderic O'Gorman (Dublin West, Green Party) | Oireachtas source

I do not believe that these amendments are necessary. In response to the pre-legislative scrutiny, PLS, report I made provision for final arrangements. The amendments are to do with the final arrangements for the burial of remains following identification and recovery. In response to the PLS process I provided that final arrangements will be made in line with the wishes of family members.

Section 57 provides that where a familial match has been made, the director will make arrangements at the request of family members to either return remains to family members or make arrangements in line with their wishes. In cases where a familial link has not been established or where an identification programme is not undertaken or is not continuing, a director will make final arrangements having regard to the stated wishes of persons who believe they have family members buried at the site, the dignity of the deceased and the condition of the remains. The matters that are set out in the amendments are already provided for in the legislation.