Thank you, Mr.

Chairman. I’m

pleased to provide opening comments on Bill 12, An Act to Amend the Human Rights Act.

Mr. Chairman, Bill 12 empowers the Human Rights Commission to establish its own rules of procedure and simplifies its annual reporting requirements. The bill transfers the responsibility for hiring and supervising staff from the commission and vests it with the director of Human Rights. The staff become employees in the public service. The amendments empower both the director and the commission to appoint assistants and engage advisors. Finally, the Board of Management of the Legislative Assembly is given a role in the making of certain regulations under the act, and such regulations are to be made in consultation with the commission and the director.

Mr.

Chairman, the Human Rights Act is

administered jointly by the Speaker, the Legislative Assembly and the Minister of Justice. The Speaker’s role in administering the act is limited to the administration of the Human Rights Commission and the Adjudication Panel. These amendments all relate to that function and do not adversely affect the rights of individuals.

I would be pleased to answer any questions you might have.