Special Adviser Review Illustrates Need for Bill
16 November 2011
Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister:
“The release of the Sammy Wilson’s review into the appointment of Special Advisers – which only happened after I tabled a Written Question – only serves to highlight the need for the Assembly to approve my Private Members Bill.
“The review is deficient in at least two respects. Firstly, those guilty of serious crimes such as murder will not be automatically bared from the posts. Secondly, the review does not impact at all upon those who are already in post.
“It is therefore essential for the Assembly to back my Private Members Bill which will automatically disqualify anyone with a criminal conviction which carries a sentence of five years or more from holding the post of Special Adviser. Furthermore, if it becomes law anyone who holds the position of Special Adviser and is convicted of such an offence will cease to hold office.
“I have been greatly encouraged by the responses which have come in to my consultation on the Bill. People from across the political and religious divide have responded positively and by so doing have demonstrated tangible support for the Travers family who have suffered so much as a result of Sinn Fein/IRA’s heartless appointment.
“With just over a month to go before the deadline for responses (30th November) there is still plenty of time for the public to show their support by taking just a couple of minutes to complete the consultation paper.”
Copies of the document can be downloaded from the TUV website at www.tuv.org.uk
Alternatively copies of the consultation can be obtained by phoning Mr Allister’s offices on 90521461 or 25640250, emailing info@jimallister.org or writing to 38 Henry Street, Ballymena BT4 3XX.
