HL Deb 30 April 2002 vol 634 cc88-9WA
Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission will make a declaration that on 15 August 1998 in Omagh 29 people plus two unborn babies had their right to life abused by those claiming to be the Real IRA, as requested by the Omagh Support and Self Help Group. [HL3755]

Lord Williams of Mostyn

This is a matter for the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission. The Chief Commissioner has been asked to write to the Lord Laird. A copy of his letter will be placed in the Library.

Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will ask the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission to take steps to rebuild the confidence of the Omagh bomb victims' support group in the Commission. [HL3757]

Lord Williams of Mostyn

The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission is an independent body. It is not for Government to influence the commission's policy decisions, nor should government seek to interfere in the commission's relationships with other bodies or groups.

We have, however, drawn to the attention of the commission the comments made by the noble Lord.

Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission has not provided practical support for the relatives of the Omagh bomb victims' civil action under Section 69 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998; and, if not, why not. [HL3756]

Lord Williams of Mostyn

I understand that the commission has yet to consider the extent of support that might be provided to the Omagh Support and Self Help Group, but that an application is currently before the Commission's Casework Committee. When the matter has been determined the group will be advised of the outcome.

We have asked the Chief Commissioner, Professor Brice Dickson, to write to the noble Lord in due course to advise him of the Commission's decision.