Questions
Asked by
To ask Her Majesty's Government what funding has been provided to the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission in the current financial year; how much it requested; and whether they are considering the future funding of the commission. [HL1948]
Allocation of funding to the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission is based on the commission’s forecast outgoings and is reviewed in conjunction with the commission during the financial year.
On the basis of initial forecasts, the commission was allocated an annual budget of £1.652 million for 2008-09. This budget was reviewed during the financial year and adjusted to reflect financial pressures arising during the year. The commission was allocated total funds of £1.744 million for the 2008-09 financial year.
The commission's annual expenditure is published each year in its annual report and accounts, copies of which are placed in the Library of both Houses. Budgets for all NIO-sponsored bodies are kept under review throughout the financial year and will continue to be kept under review in the future.
Asked by
To ask Her Majesty's Government what religions and faiths are officially recognised by the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission. [HL2260]
This is a matter for the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission, which operates independently of government. The noble Lord may wish to write to the commission directly.
Asked by
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether the remit of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission allows it to fund a staff member obtaining a qualification. [HL2261]
There is nothing further I can add to the Answer given on 26 February 2009 (Official Report, col. WA 104).
Asked by
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether when they respond to the report of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission they will also respond to the minority reports. [HL2370]
The Government are currently considering the commission's advice and plan to consult publicly on its response. We recognise that there is a diversity of opinion on the issues covered in the advice. Issues raised by those commissioners who dissented from the advice will be given due consideration in formulating the Government's response.
Asked by
To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they will place in the Library of the House all documents, including notes of relevant conversations, regarding the appointment of the chairman of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission. [HL2397]
I will write to the noble Lord and a copy of the letter will be placed in the Library of the House.