Stardust jury ‘must put emotions aside’
DELIBERATIONS BEGIN OVER 48 CLUB FIRE DEATHS
THE jury in the Stardust inquests has retired to deliberate on a verdict over the deaths of 48 people in a fire in Dublin in 1981.
Ranked as one of the longest inquests ever held in Ireland, the jury was given details of the five verdicts it may return.
The inquest into the fateful fire in Artane, north Dublin broke out in the early hours of Valentine’s Day in 1981 began last April, following months of evidence.
Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane told the jury: “I’m now sending you out, members of the jury, to deliberate on the verdicts and the findings that you wish to return in these inquests.
She explained: “These are the only considerations for you in reaching your findings and verdicts. You must be dispassionate and clinical in your approach and put emotions aside.
“As I’ve said, I’m available for any clarification you require or any questions you might have during your deliberations.”
Earlier, Dr Cullinane outlined the law that applies to the deliberations for each of the verdicts and what the jury should consider in coming to a decision.
Dr Cullinane told the jurors she is “so grateful” for their dedication to the inquests and for their attention in the almost year-long inquiry at Dublin District Coroner’s Court.
She said the jury may consider returning one of the following verdicts: accidental death, death by misadventure, unlawful killing, open verdict or a narrative verdict.
The coroner said that an accidental death verdict may be returned where a sudden or unanticipated occurrence leads to a death. Dr
Cullinane said that something could happen suddenly and without warning which leads to a death.
She gave an example that this could be where a person falls off their bicycle during the course of a routine journey and sustains fatal injuries.
She added “Therefore, if you decide in your findings, in relation to the fire that occurred at the Stardust in 1981 and the consequent 48 deaths, can be characterised or described as an accident in that way, then you may return this verdict.”
The legal test for accidental death is on the balance of probabilities.
Death
Death by misadventure, Dr Cullinane explained, is where something has happened which appears to be an accident and leads to a death, however there is an additional feature of a risk that has contributed in a significant way to the death.
With an unlawful killing, Dr Cullinane said this finding is for situations of the “most serious kind” and told jurors that they must carefully consider the legal rules.
She explained; “You must understand that the failure can be no ordinary failure.”
The jury is to return next Wednesday after the Easter break.