merrion street

The Cabinet has today, 12 June 2020, noted and accepted the recommendations of the Public Appointments Service (PAS) for the appointment of eight candidates to the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission (IHREC), in line with the process laid out in Section 13 of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Act 2014.

The Minister for Justice and Equality, Charlie Flanagan TD, who brought the recommendations to Government said:

The commissioners being recommended for appointment today bring a broad range of valuable experience, insights and perspectives that will enhance IHREC’s ability to fulfil its role in the protection of human rights and equality in Ireland, and the building of a culture of respect for human rights, equality and intercultural understanding.

The Minister of State for Equality, Immigration and Integration, David Stanton TD added:

IHREC’s work in the promotion of the tolerance and acceptance of diversity in the State, respect for the freedom and dignity of each person, and the elimination of human rights abuses and discrimination is incredibly important. I have no doubt that the Commission will benefit enormously from the legal, academic and practical expertise that the new commissioners bring to the table.

These recommendations, along with the previously approved recommendation of Ms. Sinead Gibney for the post of Chief Commissioner, which resulted from an independent PAS process, will now go forward for approval to the Houses of the Oireachtas and the President.

The appointments process for members of the Commission is governed by Section 13(1)(b) of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014. The Act provides that members of the Commission shall be appointed by the President (a) on the advice of the government, and (b) following the passing of a resolution of each House of the Oireachtas recommending the appointment.