Justice Committee publishes ‘Civil Liberties during the Covid-19 Pandemic’ report

Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy James Lawless said: “The Committee was pleased to facilitate an examination on the topic of ‘Civil Liberties during the COVID-19 pandemic’.

In acknowledging the unforeseen impact of the pandemic and the need to introduce restrictions for the protection of public health, the Committee are cognizant of the unprecedented scale of  restrictions placed on the public and of the immensely challenging situation facing countries and people on a global scale to try and contain the spread of the pandemic.”

The Cathaoirleach added: “In reaching out to stakeholders to gain diverse perspectives on the curtailment of civil liberties during the pandemic, the written submissions and witnesses provided the Committee with an insight into several areas where they deemed it was most important to reflect on the approach to policing and governing the pandemic. Among these key areas identified include whether the enforcement of restrictions was proportionate and non-discriminatory, the impact of the pandemic and restrictions on vulnerable groups, the lack of clarity regarding restrictions and the distinction between public health advice and regulations that carried a criminal sanction if breached and the application of democratic oversight and accountability in making regulations.

The Committee has made a number of recommendations for these areas and it is hoped that these will receive due consideration.”

The Cathaoirleach concluded: “A copy of this report and recommendations will be sent to the Minister for Justice and the Committee looks forward to working proactively and productively with the Minister to address the issues identified regarding the curtailment of civil liberties during the COVID-19 pandemic.

I would like to express my gratitude on behalf of the Committee to all the witnesses who attended our public hearing to give evidence and those who forwarded written submissions.”

Read the full committee report here.

The Joint Committee on Justice has 14 Members, nine from the Dáil and five from the Seanad. More information can be found on the dedicated Committee Webpage.