Content Warning: This episode contains references to mental health and the loss of life. Listener discretion is advised. 

On today’s episode of Newstalk Daily, Ciara Doherty explores how the death of one young boy who took his own life was recorded, and why Sinn Féin is calling for a change to the Coroner’s Act of 1962. 

Stephanie McGill-Lynch lost her 14-year-old son Jake to suicide in 2013. His inquest concluded with an open verdict, leaving his family without the full recognition they believe was needed. Now, Stephanie is campaigning for Jake’s Amendment — a proposed legal change that would allow coroners to cite iatrogenic factors (relating to medical treatment) as a cause of death where appropriate. 

Ciara is joined by Stephanie and Sinn Féin TD Mark Ward, who explains the party’s legislative proposal and its potential impact on families and future inquests. Together, they discuss the challenges families face following the death of a loved one to suicide, the limitations of the current legal framework, and why Stephanie believes that acknowledging iatrogenic loss is a vital part of justice and healing. 

If you’ve been affected by anything discussed in this episode, help is available: 

Call the HSE Mental Health Information Line free, 24/7, on 1800 111 888, or text HELLO to 50808 to speak anonymously with a trained volunteer at any time.