HC Deb 07 November 1997 vol 300 cc360-1W
Mr. Barnes

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans she has for the future of the Information Service in Northern Ireland. [15429]

Marjorie Mowlam

A review of Information Services in Northern Ireland was presented to me on Wednesday 5 November. A copy has been placed in the Library of the House.

The review recommends that the role and approach of the Northern Ireland Information Service should continue to be consistent with the traditional core principles and approach of government information work. I agree. It is important that the professional reputation of the Northern Ireland Information Service for accuracy, impartiality and objective presentation of the Government's policies be maintained. Its staff have provided loyal, committed and professional service to successive Governments through some of the most difficult and traumatic events.

At the same time, the review sets out a vision for the Information Service: centrally placed at the heart of the Government in Northern Ireland, taking a strategic approach, active in promoting the Government's policies as well as reactive, and delivering an up-to-date service to the media, consistent with the professional requirements for accuracy, impartiality and objectivity.

I endorse this approach. In particular, as recommended by the review, the posts of Director of Communications and Head of News will be filled by open competition ensuring transparent selection procedures supervised by the Civil Service Commission.

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