Written answers

Tuesday, 21 September 2021

Department of Justice and Equality

Stardust Fire

Photo of Paul MurphyPaul Murphy (Dublin South West, RISE)
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503. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the progress of the inquest in relation to the Stardust fire; the timeframe and budget for same; and her views on whether the resources allocated will be sufficient. [45121/21]

Photo of Paul DonnellyPaul Donnelly (Dublin West, Sinn Fein)
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507. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the reason inquests (details supplied) have been further delayed due to issues in relation to legal aid; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45240/21]

Photo of Cian O'CallaghanCian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats)
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508. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the reason the inquest for the 48 victims of the Stardust fire has been postponed from its original commencement date in October 2021; if her is Department still committed to ensuring the legal team of the families of the victims is funded in accordance with the legal aid rates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [45248/21]

Photo of Hildegarde NaughtonHildegarde Naughton (Galway West, Fine Gael)
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I propose to take Questions Nos. 503, 507 and 508 together.

The Stardust fire was a national tragedy that has left a particular legacy of pain for many people in North Dublin. I again offer my deep sympathy and condolences to the families of the 48 young people killed in the Stardust fire over forty years ago. These families have suffered a terrible loss. I also recognise the impact on everyone who attended that night and the impact on the local community.

I am committed to ensuring that the new inquests into the Stardust deaths and the families involved are provided with all relevant supports.

Government funding of up to €8m has been allocated for the new inquests. This funding will provide for legal aid for the families concerned and for other supports including the fit-out of the bespoke courtroom in the RDS.

The Legal Aid Board, which is independent in the conduct of its functions, is, I am informed, engaging with the legal representatives of the families to agree an appropriate funding structure and schedule.

The conduct of the Stardust inquests is entirely a matter for the Senior Dublin Coroner, Dr Myra Cullinane. Her independence in relation to such matters is set out in the Coroners Acts and I have no role in this regard.

I understand that the public facing elements of the inquests are expected to commence once the necessary preliminary hearings conclude. The Senior Dublin Coroner has held five preliminary hearings to date, and has scheduled a sixth pre-inquest hearing to take place on 13 October.

Further information can be found on the dedicated website at: .

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