Launch of Interactive Human Rights Guide

2 November 2015

The NI Human Rights Commission, working in partnership with OFMDFM, has developed an interactive web resource intended to support civil servants in delivering their human rights responsibilities and to act as a reference for human rights information and guidance. The online resource has been designed for civil servants but can be accessed by anyone who wants to find out more about human rights in practice.

Head of the Civil Service Dr Malcolm McKibbin, BSc MBA DPhil CEng FICE stated:

“The work done by civil servants in NICS departments impacts on people’s lives and environment and therefore has relevance to human rights, particularly in key areas such as, but not restricted to, health, education, child protection, welfare, housing, justice, and disability. I would recommend that all staff take time to look at the new interactive guide.”

Chief Commissioner Les Allamby commented:

“The Human Rights Commission has welcomed the successful partnership training programme developed with the Northern Ireland Civil Service. This work has attracted positive interest amongst other public authorities in Northern Ireland and further afield. We encourage all civil servants to complete the introductory e-learning course available through the Centre for Applied Learning. In addition all those with responsibility for developing policy and legislation should consider the policy and human rights course as integral to their continuing professional development. This has now supplemented, through the support of the OFMDFM, an online resource designed to assist civil servants in the promotion and protection of human rights.”

ENDS

Further information:

For further information please contact Claire Martin on: (028) 9024 3987.

Notes to Editors

1. This new guide provides a comprehensive overview of human rights law and how it applies to the work of the NICS. It also provides a useful range tools and reference materials. The guide can be found on the Commission’s website or at: NICSHumanrightsGuide

2. The Human Rights Commission is a statutory public body established in 1999 to promote and protect human rights. In accordance with the Paris Principles the Commission reviews the adequacy and effectiveness of measures undertaken by the UK Government to promote and protect human rights, specifically within Northern Ireland (NI).