§ Lord Marlesfordasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will describe the considerations of "sensitivity" and "safety" which in their view justify their refusal to disclose the names of prisoners they have released under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement. [HL1246]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Northern Ireland Office (Lord Dubs)Sensitivity and safety have been the key considerations in Government's refusal to publish names of prisoners released under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement.
19WAThe Government recognise that some victims wish to know about the release of a prisoner or prisoners involved in the crime committed against them. Arrangements have been put in place through the Early Release Information Scheme for such requests to be validated and for victims to be kept informed.
However, in a great many cases, victims of crimes have no wish to be reminded of the circumstances of their tragedy. Victims groups have also expressed deep concern at the publicity given to releases by the media.
The safety of prisoners and their families has also been a key consideration. The publication of individual prisoner names could create opportunities for reprisals. Identification could also compromise their ability to live their lives beyond the shadow of past misdeeds.