Interference in appointments at independent bodies 'a concern' for human rights watchdog

The country chapter on Ireland says that for those experiencing homelessness, it is 'deeply concerning that the provision of legal support is only available through a small number of charities such as MLRC [Mercy Law Research Centre] and Community Law and Mediation (CLM)'. Picture: Christian Horz/Alamy Stock

Political interference in the selection of the heads of independent bodies and their operation "remains a concern" in Ireland, according to an EU-wide report on the rule of law.

A report by the Civil Liberties Union for Europe (Liberties) published this week said Ireland has "exhibited stagnation or only minimal progress in its rule of law indicators", citing slow progress at updating ethic legislation and a lack of progression of a new Defamation Bill specifically.