The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC) is the independent statutory authority in Ireland mandated to protect and promote human rights and equality and to encourage the development of a culture of respect for human rights, equality and intercultural understanding in the State.
Ms Emily Logan, Chief Commissioner of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission said: “Today is international human rights day. The very essence of human rights is the protection of the human dignity of every person in particular the most vulnerable people in society.”
Ms Logan continued: “People with severe to profound intellectual disabilities should be cared for in a way that fully respects their dignity and their will and preferences, and nurtures their full potential. The RTE Primetime programme clearly raises questions about the culture and treatment of the individual residents of Áras Attracta and more broadly puts into question the possible systemic nature of such treatment. I have written to Kathleen Lynch T.D., Minister of State for Primary and Social Care to seek a meeting to discuss the observance of the human rights of people with intellectual disabilities in the care of the State.”
The IHREC will reserve making any further statements until it considers the best way to proceed on this matter.
ENDS/
For further information, please contact Fidelma Joyce, IHREC 01 8589601 Mob: 087 783 4939
The Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC) was established by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014. The Commission has a statutory remit to protect and promote human rights and equality in the State, to promote a culture of respect for human rights, equality and intercultural understanding and to promote understanding and awareness of the importance of human rights and equality.[1] The IHREC is tasked with reviewing the adequacy and effectiveness of law, policy and practice relating to the protection of human rights and equality and with making recommendations to Government on measures to strengthen, protect and uphold human rights and equality accordingly.[2]
In addition to all members of the Commission being appointed on 31 October by President Michael D. Higgins, the Commission reports to the Oireachtas for its statutory functions and to the Public Accounts Committee on its financial expenditure.
[1] Section 10(1)(a)-(e) of the 2014 Act.
[2] Section 10(2)(b) and section 10(2)(d) of the 2014 Act.