Helen McEntee

The public consultation will run until 19 January 2024, after which proposals on a renewed coroner system, including a proposed plan as to how this will be achieved, will be brought to government.

There are currently 34 coroners covering 37 districts across the State. Most coroners work as solicitors, barristers or doctors and carry out their coroner function in addition to these roles.

Justice minister Helen McEntee said: “Coroners provide a valuable service to next of kin and society in general in seeking to explain the causes of death in sudden, unexplained, violent and unnatural deaths, and supporting bereaved families and loved ones at a very difficult time in their lives.

“While the Coroners Act of 1962 has undergone a number of amendments, the structure of the Coroner Service remains largely as it was originally established by that Act.

“The government wants to ensure that the Coroner Service is positioned to provide a comprehensive service into the future. Issues such as driving innovative change and enhancing customer service have been identified as areas in need of examination.”

She added: “This consultation marks a significant step forward in that process — the aim of which is to ensure we maintain the many positive elements of the Service, while introducing improvements and enhancements where they might be required.

“Responses to the consultation process will be captured through two separate questionnaires, which aim to capture the views and opinions of both individuals who have engaged with the Coroner Service and those of stakeholder groups who support the service. I would encourage all interested parties to take part in this process over the coming months — your views will be a key part of the review and reform process.”