Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 27 Mar 2002

Vol. 551 No. 3

Written Answers. - Convention on Human Rights.

Eamon Gilmore

Question:

54 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs in view of particular assurances previously given by him, the position with regard to the ratification of Protocol 7 and 12 to the European Convention on Human Rights; the specific steps already taken and remaining to be taken in connection with ratification; the precise reasons such remaining steps have yet to be taken; when it is proposed to deposit the instrument of ratification; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10256/02]

Minister for Foreign Affairs (Mr. Cowen):

Protocol 7 to the European Convention on Human Rights was ratified by Ireland on 3 August 2001.

The primary responsibility for the ratification of Protocol 12, which extends the anti-discrimination provisions of the European Convention on Human Rights, lies with the Department of Justice, Equality, and Law Reform and I understand that this matter is currently under examination in that Department. This protocol has not yet come into force. Ten ratifications are needed for entry into force and Georgia is the only state to have ratified the Protocol to date.

Ireland has comprehensive anti-discrimination protection in place since the enactment of the Employment Equality and Equal Status Acts which prohibit discrimination on nine separate grounds including race, colour, religion, national or social origin, political or other opinion, association with a national minority, sexual orientation, property, birth, or status. This legislation also put in place mechanisms to offer redress for individuals to pursue complaints in regard to discrimination experienced on any of these grounds. Ireland has, therefore, already provided in national law for many of the provisions of Protocol 12.