Statement by Charlie Flanagan TD

Bullying of rights agencies must be resisted

Fine Gael Justice Spokesperson, Charlie Flanagan, has today (Tuesday) accused the Government of bullying its critics in relation to proposals to merge five agencies, the National Disability Authority, the Equality Authority, the Equality Tribunal, the Irish Human Rights Commission (IHRC) and the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner.

“Examining the records of the five agencies in question, it is clear that they cover five areas where the Government is failing and these agencies have not hesitated to highlight Government ineptitude and violations in the areas of equality, human rights, data protection and disability rights.

“The Government has reacted to legitimate critiques of its record and approach by threatening to undermine and weaken the five agencies that it clearly sees as a thorn in its side.

“It is no secret that the Government was particularly angry with the IHRC for criticising its tacit support for extraordinary rendition. This proposed merger is clearly a message to other agencies: If you criticise us, you will pay a hefty price.”

This coming Thursday (October 2nd) Minister Ahern will be subjected to questions by Fine Gael about his proposals to merge the five agencies. Justice Spokesperson Charlie Flanagan further commented:

“It is essential that the Minister answers questions about why he is trying to weaken agencies put in place to protect the rights of the people of Ireland .

“Fine Gael has done extensive work on the role, function and productivity of Government agencies and we have highlighted those which are an unnecessary waste of taxpayers’ money. There is plenty of scope for the Government to save money by abolishing redundant quangos if it wishes.”

Contact your TDs today

Charlie Flanagan is a Fine Gael TD for Laois-Offaly.  Find your TD by constitency here.

Tags: Bullying, Charlie Flanagan, Extraordinary Rendition, Fine Gael, Minister Ahern, Redundant Quangos, TD, TDs
Posted in Support from Oireachtas Members