Alliance Welcomes Human Rights Appointments

12.00.00am GMT Mon 1st Mar 1999

Alliance Party Spokesperson, Stephen Farry, has welcomed the appointment of the membership of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, and called for them to play an active role in promoting a 'human rights culture'.

Cllr Farry said:

"Alliance welcomes the appointment of the membership of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission. It is a timely boost to the implementation of the Agreement on the eve of the anticipated devolution of powers. Alliance regards human rights protections as a key element of the Agreement."

"Its creation is major departure from human rights practice to date in the UK, and is particularly important given the historical legacy within Northern Ireland."

"This new commission can play an active role in promoting a human rights culture throughout Northern Ireland. We now have a body that is capable of investigating alleged human rights abuses, taking cases, and commenting upon proposed Assembly legislation."

"A particularly significant role is advising the Secretary of State on what further protections are necessary to supplement the European Convention of Human Rights in a Northern Ireland Bill of Rights. Alliance is concerned to see that this process reflects international standards, and only happens after a serious public debate."

ENDS.