Skip to main content
Normal View

Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 23 May 2001

Vol. 536 No. 6

Written Answers. - Human Rights Commission.

Derek McDowell

Question:

126 Mr. McDowell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he expects that the full Human Rights Commission will be operational; if his attention has been drawn to reported comments made by the president of the commission expressing frustration at the delays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15002/01]

Before I can proceed to make the formal establishment day order under section 3 of the Human Rights Commission Act, 2000, amending legislation is first required to provide for an increase in the number of persons on the commission from nine, as provided for in the Act, to 15 to take account of the Government's decision to appoint six additional members. I have discussed the concerns expressed by the president of the commission with him, and he has received my assurance that this matter will be dealt with during the current parliamentary session. The way should then be clear to place the commission on a full statutory basis immediately. The commission has been meeting as an interim body since the beginning of the year to consider its staffing-accommodation requirements and other issues related to its functions.

Question No. 127 answered with Question No. 70.

Top
Share