HL Deb 24 October 2000 vol 618 cc22-3WA
Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will reconfirm their support for those organisations seeking to implement the Belfast Agreement of 1998, and in particular its guarantee of parity of esteem for both cultures and traditions on the island of Ireland. [HL3968]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton

The Government firmly support all those organisations seeking the full implementation of the agreement. The Government are committed to the principle of parity of esteem as essential to ensure that the agreement is implemented in a balanced manner, reflecting the culture, ethos and aspirations of all of the people of Ireland, north and south.

Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether, in view of the Belfast Agreement of 1998 which guarantees parity of esteem for all on the island of Ireland, they will offer advice to the government of the Republic of Ireland on the treatment of those of its residents who consider themselves to be members of the pro-British community. [HL4047]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton

The treatment of Irish nationals who consider themselves to be members of the pro-British community in the Republic of Ireland is primarily a matter for the Irish Government and it is for them to decide if they wish to seek advice from Her Majesty's Government. All parties to the Good Friday Agreement are committed to the principle of equality for all.

Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether, in view of the guarantee of parity of esteem for all communities in the island of Ireland, they will make representations to the government of the Irish Republic to ensure that their application of human rights law is to the same standard as that in Northern Ireland. [HL3976]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton

The Irish Government is committed, under the Good Friday Agreement, to bring forward measures to ensure that at least an equivalent level of protection of human rights will apply in its jurisdiction as will pertain in Northern Ireland. It is for the Irish Government and Courts to determine how this is done.