In an economic downturn human rights protections for the most vulnerable must not be eroded
The Irish Human Rights Commission (IHRC), today, launched its 2007 Annual Report. In launching the Report, Dr Maurice Manning, President of the IHRC addressed the goals and achievements of the IHRC, and the challenges for 2008. He focused particularly on the role of national human rights infrastructure, the legislative process and accountability.
The Irish Human Rights Commission (IHRC) believes that in times of economic downturn protections for the most vulnerable members of society should not be eroded.
Dr Maurice Manning said "it is in times of economic difficulty that people in vulnerable situations often need the most protection. While we recognise the extent of the economic difficulties facing the country, and we are conscious of the need to be efficient in what we do, nevertheless it is more important than ever that a strong, effective and independent national human rights framework continues to promote and protect people’s human rights in our society."
The IHRC currently chairs the European Group of 29 National Human Rights Institutions and its international role has been enhanced by playing a central role in promoting the ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities internationally. Ireland has signed the Convention but has yet to ratify it. Dr Maurice Manning said "the IHRC welcomes the current Government led review of Irish law which we hope will lead to a swift ratification of this important Convention."
Promoting the centrality of human rights in legislation, in policy and in justice featured prominently in the IHRC’s work in 2007. Focusing on the legislative process Dr Manning said "human rights are of central relevance to the work of many Government Departments, therefore it is essential that human rights standards are taken into account in drafting legislation at the earliest stage across the policy spectrum and it is equally important that adequate time be provided for debate by the Oireachtas on such Bills at the various stages of the enactment process."
Also speaking at the launch, Mr Éamonn Mac Aodha, Chief Executive of the IHRC flagged its legal work and its legislative review role on topics such as human trafficking and the proposed DNA database. Mr Mac Aodha also flagged the imminent publication of the IHRC’s observations on the scheme of the Civil Partnership Bill 2008, which has been referred to the IHRC.
Since the enactment of the European Convention on Human Rights Act 2003, the number of cases in which the IHRC has been granted liberty to appear before the High Court or Supreme Court has increased. Mr Mac Aodha said "the IHRC has appeared on 7 occasions before the High Court or the Supreme Court in 2007 including in a number of cases in which the Court had invited the IHRC’s participation; a welcome development. These cases addressed a wide variety of human rights concerns including legal aid, residency rights of non-national parents of Irish-born children, accommodation of Traveller families, criminal trespass legislation and local authority housing."
On the issue of human trafficking, Mr Éamonn Mac Aodha, Chief Executive of the IHRC said "making the trafficking of people for sexual and labour exploitation a criminal offence is very welcome; however more legislative protections for victims of human trafficking are required. Victims of trafficking should be provided with appropriate healthcare, secure accommodation, material assistance, and legal advice."
In its observations on the scheme of the Criminal Justice (Forensic Sampling and Evidence) 2007 Bill, the IHRC called for more safeguards in the subsequent Bill, expected in the coming months, in relation to the retention and storage of DNA on a database. Mr Éamonn Mac Aodha said "rigorous safeguards must underpin the legal framework governing the taking, retention and sharing of such private information as DNA. Ensuring the integrity of DNA evidence by proper regulation is essential to avoid potential miscarriages of justice."
Noting ongoing funding difficulties for the Commission, Mr Mac Aodha said that "this issue has cast a shadow over the IHRC’s day-to-day operations in 2008 but we are optimistic that the situation can be addressed and we will continue to work positively with the Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform to improve matters".
ENDS/
A spokesperson is available for comment
For further information please contact:
Fidelma Joyce, IHRC, Tel: 01 8589628 Mob: 087 783 4939