First Minister, Arlene Foster, and deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness, today announced the membership of the Commission on Flags, Identity, Culture and Tradition.
First Minister, Arlene Foster said: “The establishment of this Commission marks another key milestone in the Fresh Start Agreement. The Commission presents a unique opportunity to take a fresh approach to dealing with the complexities of flags, identity, culture and tradition.
“The Commission will undertake a very important programme of work and I commend those who are taking an active role in shaping a Northern Ireland free from segregation and division.”
The deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness said: “I welcome the establishment of this Commission which will identify and acknowledge the opportunities of a diverse community in which cultural expression can be celebrated. We must develop a society which is open, tolerant and mutually respectful. This Commission will contribute to this and pave the way for greater awareness and understanding of differing cultural identities.
“I thank the Commission members and look forward to receiving the Commission’s report.”
Ministers also announced the appointment of Mr Neville John Armstrong and Dr Dominic Paul Bryans as joint chairs.
The members of the Commission are as follows:
- Mr Doug Beattie MLA MC
- Mr Ian Crozier
- Mr Richard Good
- Mr Tom Hartley
- Professor Thomas William Hennessey
- Dr David Thomas Hume MBE
- Mr Donncha Mac Niallais
- Mr Nelson McCausland MLA
- Mr Ian McCrea
- Dr Katy Radford MBE
- Mr David Anthony Robinson
- Mr Mukesh Sharma MBE
- Mr Carl Whyte
Notes to editors:
1. As outlined in the Stormont House Agreement the Commission will consist of 15 members. Seven members have been appointed by the leaders of the political parties and eight will be drawn from outside of Government.
Political appointments
- Mr Doug Beattie MLA MC
- Mr Carl Whyte
- Mr Richard Good
- Mr Tom Hartley
- Mr Donncha Mac Niallais
- Mr Nelson McCausland MLA
- Mr Ian McCrea
Non-Political appointments
- Dr Dominic Paul Bryan (joint chair)
- Mr Neville Armstrong (joint chair)
- Prof Thomas William Hennessey
- Dr David Thomas Hume MBE
- Dr Katy Radford MBE
- Mr David Anthony Robinson
- Mr Mukesh Sharma MBE
- Mr Ian Crozier
2. The recruitment competition for the non-political members was advertised in December 2015 and the closing date for applications was 15 January 2016. Eight successful applicants were offered an appointment to the Commission on 17 June 2016.
3. For queries relating to the Commission please contact Dr Dominic Bryans on mobile number 07775 577 112.
4. Media enquiries to The Executive Office press office on 028 9037 8201. Out of office hours, please contact the duty press office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
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