“thank Commissioners for the effectiveness and cohesion that they have shown..”

Northern Ireland Secretary of State, Shaun Woodward, MP, has announced the re-appointment to the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission of all seven commissioners, for a further 3 years, and the reappointment of Chief Commissioner Monica McWilliams for a further 4 years. Obviously he must believe they’ve all been very successful in their roles to date.. From the Secretary of state’s statement

Shaun Woodward said: “The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission is a key part of the architecture of human rights protections in Northern Ireland.

“I am delighted to make these reappointments to the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission and would thank Commissioners for the effectiveness and cohesion that they have shown throughout their first term.”

From the statement’s notes to editors

The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission was established under the Northern Ireland Act 1998 and is responsible for keeping under review the adequacy and effectiveness in Northern Ireland of law and practice relating to the protection of human rights. The Commission also promotes understanding and awareness of the importance of human rights in Northern Ireland.

Also in those notes

Terms of appointment

The Chief Commissioner, and seven Commissioners, were all appointed on 1 September 2005, serving an initial three year term.

The Commissioners’ second term will last for three years and will be on a part time basis (average four days a month) for which an allowance of £10,000 per annum is paid.

The Chief Commissioner’s second term will last for four years and will be on a full time basis for which a salary of £69,520 per annum is paid.