Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 28 November 2013
42. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has had any recent discussions with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland or with Members of the Northern Ireland Executive on the proposed bill of rights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [51235/13]
View answerThe Good Friday Agreement recognizes the need to define rights, supplementary to those in the European Convention on Human Rights, to reflect the particular circumstances of Northern Ireland. A Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland would ensure that these rights are given a legislative base. I have made my views on this clear to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and will continue to raise the question of a Bill of Rights in my discussions with her and with the First Minister and deputy First Minister. We all have important roles to play if we are to build a permanent and lasting peace and reconciliation in Northern Ireland. The Irish Government recognizes this and remains committed to this process, and to the full implementation of all Agreements which set out the principles and framework for peace and reconciliation.
