Stardust inquest may run until end of year, with over 300 witnesses expected

The inquest into the Stardust fire of February 1981, in which 48 young people died, entered a new phase at Dublin Coroner's Court on 23 May 2023. Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane addressed the jury, noting that the tragedy had left an indelible mark on Artane and surrounding communities, where most of the deceased originated. Some victims were from Cavan, Derry and Belfast. Dr Cullinane outlined that the proceedings are expected to continue until the end of the year, with over 300 witnesses and witness statements to be heard. Witness evidence will commence on 7 June, beginning with undisputed background facts regarding the Stardust building, its structure, exits and safety systems. The coroner explained that the jury must determine four matters for each deceased: identity, time, location and manner of death. These fresh inquests were ordered in 2019 following an application by representatives of 42 bereaved families, with the Attorney General finding an insufficiency of inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the deaths.