Liberal Democrats

Liberal Democrats believe a nation the the role of the government is not to impose a solution on Northern Ireland's citizens, but to create a framework within which the people of Northern Ireland themselves can find a solution to the troubles of the Province.

We recognise that any change in the status of Northern Ireland  can only come about with the full and free consent of its people. We also recognise the legitimate interest that the Republic of Ireland has in the future of the province, in accordance with the Anglo-Irish Agreement.

We support calls for the establishment of a system of devolution in northern Ireland where responsibility and powers are shared across communities. We reject the current undemocratic arrangements for considering Northern Ireland at Westminster, and we would reform them.

We would introduce fair voting for all elections in the Province to encourage cross community-based organisations working for peace and reconciliation in the Province.

We would strengthen individual rights in Northern Ireland by introducing a Bill of Rights and bringing anti-terrorism legislation into line with the European Convention of Human Rights.

We would:

• Reform the Diplock system so that three judges preside over non-jury trials, and encourage the maximum use of juries.
• Ensure that all police interviews with terrorist suspects are videoed.