Families of the Stardust victims recently met with Minister for Justice Helen McEntee to discuss potential reforms to the holding of inquests. One of the main topics of conversation was the idea of conducting these hearings in a less formal setting than a traditional courtroom. Antoinette Keegan, a survivor of the 1981 fire that claimed the lives of her two sisters, described the meeting as emotional and expressed hope for a more comfortable environment for families during future inquests.
In addition to discussing inquest reforms, Minister McEntee informed the families that the government is still working on a redress scheme for relatives and survivors. The families are also scheduled to attend an event with President Michael D Higgins in October. The inquests into the tragic fire concluded three months ago, with findings pointing to unlawful killing due to an electrical fault in the bar’s hot press and obstructed exits.
Overall, the families expressed satisfaction with the meeting and received bound copies of the findings from Dr Myra Cullinane, the presiding official during the inquests. Legal representatives had previously called for broader reforms to inquest procedures, leading to significant changes in jury selection and legal aid. Minister McEntee’s amendments to legislation reflect a commitment to ensuring fair and independent processes in future inquests.