Human Rights Issues.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 26 January 2005

Wednesday, 26 January 2005

Ceisteanna (634)

Joe Costello

Ceist:

698 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will respond to correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34214/04]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. McDowell)

I note that this matter has been carefully considered by the Humans Rights Commission in accordance with the criteria set out in the Human Rights Commission Act 2000 and the commission's internal guidelines concerning the holding of inquiries and the provision of assistance.

The clear policy underpinning the Human Rights Commission Act 2000 is the establishment of a national independent human rights institution in line with the provisions of the UN Paris Principles applicable to such bodies. As Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform I have no function in this matter, nor would it be appropriate for me to comment further.