Lynn Ruane (Independent) | Oireachtas source

The amendment specifies that at least one member of the advisory board should have knowledge of and experience in transitional justice. Transitional justice is a response to systemic or widespread violations of human rights that seeks recognition for victims and the promotion of possibilities for peace, reconciliation and democracy. It is justice adapted to a society transforming itself after a period of pervasive human rights abuses. We must ensure we take on board the available expertise in this field in order that the victims of human rights abuses in Ireland and their families will receive the justice they so deserve.

Amendment No. 14 seeks to remove the requirement to have an advisory board member from the relevant local authority where the principal burial land is situated and to substitute the provision with an alternative wherein an expert in transitional justice would sit on the advisory group. The provision, as drafted, runs contrary to the requests made by survivors and stakeholders during pre-legislative scrutiny. Given the history of complicity of local authorities in the operation of these institutions, it would be insulting to survivors to include this provision. Instead, a member with knowledge of transitional justice would be better and more appropriate to have on the board. Like amendment No. 13, this amendment will also make up for the lack of any reference to transitional justice throughout the Bill.