Death certificates abroad
Senator Kyne raised the difficulties families face in obtaining Irish death certificates when a citizen dies abroad. The Cathaoirleach then paid tribute to Geraldine Finucane and reaffirmed the need for truth and inquiry.
I concur with Senator Ó Donnghaile's contribution on the Pat Finucane case. It was a very disappointing decision by the UK Government yesterday. One might say it was to be expected but it was hugely disappointing nonetheless. My thoughts are with the Finucane family and what they have gone through and are still going through on an issue that deserves a full public inquiry.
Another issue the Leader was familiar with in her former Department is the certification of deaths abroad. As she knows, the family of an Irish citizen who dies abroad finds it difficult to get a death certificate in this jurisdiction. We passed legislation a number of years ago to rectify this matter. I worked with the then Minister, Joan Burton, at the time. Legislation was enacted and received widespread support across both Houses at the time. There were further delays in putting in place the process to ensure that those certificates could be awarded to the families and loved ones of those who died aboard. I ask the Leader for an update on this issue. She will be familiar with the industrial relations issues in the Department that was dealing with this issue. We have done the heavy lifting here, as have departmental officials in terms of ensuring this process is put in place, yet we cannot sort out the final and most important issue, namely, providing certificates for the loved ones of those who, unfortunately, passed away abroad.
I ask that the Leader seek an update on this very important issue.
Comment on this
Before I call on the Leader, I also pay tribute to Geraldine Finucane for her courage, resilience and relentless pursuit of justice for the murder of her husband, Pat Finucane. Nobody should be afraid of the truth. We had a great debate for two hours with the Minister for Foreign Affairs and there was consensus across the House that the truth should be given to the family, an inquiry was needed, and is still needed.