Richard Boyd Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, People Before Profit Alliance)
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395. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the reason for the delays in publishing a report (details supplied), given the length of time he has had it; and to consider the impact this is having on the much-delayed inquest into a person’s death in prison; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [67323/25]

Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail)
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I recognise the significance and sensitivity of the coronial investigation process for loved ones of the bereaved and that delays in coronial investigations can cause distress for families of the deceased. However, it is important to note that coronial investigations are the responsibility of coroners, who are independent of my Department in the exercise of their statutory investigative function, and neither I, as Minister, nor my Department, can interfere with a coroner in the exercise of their functions.

I can confirm that the Office of the Inspector of Prisons (OIP) Death in Custody report referred to by the Deputy has been received by my Department and is receiving due attention to ensure that it can be published as soon as is possible pending legal advice.