AQW 11195/17-22

Ms Kellie Armstrong
Alliance Party
Strangford

Tabled Date: 30/11/2020
Answered On Date: 07/01/2021
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) what actions they are taking to ensure the rights of citizens who designate as Both and politically as Other are being protected in legislation as outlined in part 25 of New Decade, New Approach; and (ii) whether they will update the definition of cross-community to include Others on an equal legal footing as Nationalists and Unionists.

Answer:

The principles set out in paragraph 25 of New Decade, New Approach are provided for in the Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Amendment No.1) Bill. Our officials continue with preparatory work to bring forward this Bill together with the two other Bills appended to New Decade, New Approach. We will progress the legislation during 2020/2021, and establish the Office of Identity and Culture Expression as quickly as possible thereafter.

The statutory definition of cross-community in the Northern Ireland Act 1998 is an excepted matter, and outside the legislative competence of the Assembly. Legislation to amend the definition would be a matter for the Secretary of State following consultation with the political parties.