Government to propose amendments to automatic maternal death inquest bill

A private member’s bill that would provide for an automatic inquest into every maternal death in Ireland will not be opposed by the Government.

Government minister Simon Harris, speaking in the Dáil on behalf of Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald, thanked Independent TD Clare Daly for bringing forward the Coroners Bill.

The proposed legislation is intended to introduce a mandatory post-mortem and inquest into any woman who dies during pregnancy or within six weeks of delivery.

Mr Harris told TDs: “At the outset, I confirm that the Government intends not to oppose the Coroners Bill 2015, as the Minister very much appreciates the intention behind this Private Members Bill.”

However, he said the bill “could benefit from considerable amendments to ensure that it is legally valid and an appropriate instrument to ensure that the coroners system can provide the best possible, high quality public service”.

He added: “The question of mandatory inquests for maternal deaths is a complex issue and the Minister would like to give it in-depth and thorough consideration, in consultation with the Minister for Health and other stakeholders. I can assure you that the Minister will carefully reflect on today’s contributions and the points made.

“In conclusion, and on behalf of the Minister for Justice and Equality, I would like to again thank Deputy Daly for bringing this Bill forward, as the motivation behind the Bill is well intentioned and commendable.

“I want to again acknowledge the deeply difficult and distressing issues which are raised for those who have lost their loved ones through maternal death.”