| Annual Review 2000
Chair’s Overview I am pleased to introduce the Committee’s Annual Review for 2000. When I was chosen to serve as the Chair of the Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee in December 1999, the Committee’s Senior Legal Adviser reminded me of one of his favorite quotations –
I am indebted for this appropriate and timely reminder. This review concerns the scrutiny of Bills introduced in the spring 1999 session and during 2000 and also briefly outlines the other work of the Committee. The Committee’s strength lies not so much in any inherent powers it may possess, as its functions are principally advisory in nature, but rather they lie in its ability to alert, caution and advise the Parliament in relation to certain undesirable legislative practices. It is the very process of independent scrutiny and the prospect of adverse comment that ensures that such practices are eliminated or where their application is unavoidable or desirable, the necessity for their use is adequately explained by the Executive to the Parliament and placed on the public record. In that respect there is more than anecdotal evidence that the Committee plays a useful role as a Parliamentary adviser. During 2000 the Committee continued its fine tradition of bipartisan work within its terms of reference. I take this opportunity to thank my Committee colleagues for their professionalism and co-operation during the year. The Committee is fortunate to have a dedicated and professional team of legal advisers and support staff, and I take this opportunity to thank our Senior Legal Adviser Andrew Homer for effectively leading the team during 2000. Ms Mary Gillett MLA
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Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee Last Updated 16/3/2000 |