Lynn Ruane (Independent) | Oireachtas source

This amendment addresses the operation of forensic examination and recovery and the post-recovery analysis of human remains. More specifically, it calls for a review to be undertaken and a report to be laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas regarding the functions of an authorised office under this Part of the Bill, once the examination of a site has concluded and the office has ceased operation.

As the Minister will be aware, the role and involvement of the coroner was a point of significant deliberation during pre-legislative scrutiny in the Committee on Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth and during the Stages of the Bill in the Dáil. I understand the Minister has amended the legislation to take account of these deliberations and discussions, and I very much welcome the changes that have been made to the Bill in this way.

The amendment seeks to insert a provision that would see a review undertaken of the functions under this Part of the Bill, including by the coroner, and the subsequent delivery of a report to both Houses based on the findings of the review. This would ensure the very important functions provided for by this section receive additional oversight to ensure they are being carried out effectively. Given the extent of the concerns and the deliberations during pre-legislative scrutiny on this issue, this amendment would act as an important safeguard.