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Stardust jury seek guidance on verdict questionnaire

Summary

On the second day of the Stardust inquest, the jury finished deliberations and sought legal guidance on several issues before returning verdicts on the 48 deaths. In Dublin District Coroner's Court, coroner Dr Myra Cullinane noted that the jury had asked a number of questions. The first concerned question four of the general questionnaire, which referenced factors contributing to the fire's spread. The jurors asked whether they were expected to answer "yes" even if a factor was minor, and whether the question focused on a design flaw. Dr Cullinane explained that the jury was highlighting that a building's ceiling is always a factor in a fire, and that the questionnaire was meant to assess such factors. Evidence had shown the Stardust's west alcove ceiling was lower than statutory height, and fire investigator Dr Will Hutchinson had testified that the low ceiling intensified downward heat, contributing to the spread.

Who, what, where, when and why

What: Report matter: Stardust jury seek guidance on verdict questionnaire. Procedural stage: trial

When:

• 2024-04-04 Publication

Places mentioned

Topics

Stage Trial

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Read the original CNI report