Northern Ireland Security Bill human rights issues “significant”

Summary

This Report from the Joint Committee on Human Rights ‘Legislative Scrutiny Third Progress Report’ (HC 303/ HL 46) examines the human rights implications of both government and private bills before Parliament, in accordance with the new legislative scrutiny sifting system which it has adopted from the beginning of the 2006-07 parliamentary session.

The Report draws attention to the human rights implications of provision proposed in two Government bills currently passing through parliament. The Committee identifies possible issues in relation to:

The Justice and Security (Northern Ireland) Bill (HCB 10) in particular regarding juries and non-jury trials, the powers of the Northern Ireland Rights Commission, and additional powers for the police and the Army in Northern Ireland
The Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Bill (HLB 5)specifically regarding the proposed new powers for law enforcement agents.

Found this story interesting?
Spread the news by clicking below to add it to your bookmarking service:

Law-Making Explained

This is a House of Commons Paper (HC 303) and a House of Lords Paper (HL 46): it is a report from the Joint Committee on Human Rights.

Find out more about House Papers.

How does it affect me?

If you live or work in Northern Ireland, the Justice and Security (Northern Ireland) Bill (HCB 10) affects you. The Bill contains a number of measures designed to deliver the Government's commitment to security normalisation in Northern Ireland under the Good Friday Agreement.

If you work in law, law enforcement or related sectors, the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Bill (HLB 5) affects you. The Bill’s provisions regard tribunals and inquiries, and amendments include: judicial appointments, enforcement of judgments and debts, provision protecting cultural objects from seizure or forfeiture, and altering the powers of the High Court in judicial review applications.

Visit the Joint Committee's homepage.

Read more about the legislative scrutiny work of the Joint Committee on Human Rights.