The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (‘the Commission’) has today welcomed the Government’s recommendation of six new Commission Members to be proposed for appointment to serve on the Commission.
The new Commission Members proposed are:
- Sam Blanckensee
- Cathryn Costello
- Patricia Munatsi
- Rose Wall
- Adam Harris (reappointment)
- Rosaleen McDonagh (reappointment)
The announcement comes after an open and transparent competition held by the Public Appointments Service (PAS). As set out under the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014, once the PAS selection process is completed, Commission Members must be approved through resolutions of both Houses of the Oireachtas and are then formally appointed by the President.
This process is in line with international standards for National Human Rights Institutions (the UN Paris Principles).
Chief Commissioner, Liam Herrick welcomed today’s announcement, saying:
“These proposed appointments will bring significant practical, academic and human rights experience and expertise to the work of the Commission at a time when our mandate has significantly increased in many areas.
Once confirmed by the Oireachtas and appointed by the President, our Commission Members will join in the work of fulfilling the Commission’s statutory mandate to protect and promote human rights and equality in the State.”