Amnesty Ireland says reform of the HSE needed

Amnesty Ireland have slammed the "excess of legalism" surrounding the HSE, at the launch of the human rights group's annual report in Dublin this morning. Colm O'Gorman, Amnesty's chief executive, also said that reform was needed in relation to the HSE.

The Ombudsman and Information Commissioner, Emily O'Reilly, launching the report outlined the inadequacies of Irish life: the banking crisis and the general lack of accountablility that exists. She echoed much of what is documented in the annual report. Ms O'Reilly's speech is widespread in targeting the human rights deficincies that exist.

The theme of this year's report is the obligation of the state and making governments accountable for their actions. Gender based violence, extraordinary rendition and ongoing human rights breaches in countries, such as Sudan and Chad are mentioned as is the failure of UN action in other parts of the world.

Amnesty's committment to challenging human rights abuses in the Middle East and Zimbabwe was reiterated. Poverty, scarcity of food and the energy crisis were cited as areas of concern as many continue to suffer. Mr O'Gorman said the "law must be applied equally" and he repeatedly stressed the duty of governments to challenge these inequalities.

The report also criticises the state of mental healthcare in Ireland. The Ombudsman says she is "unsure" of the role of the HSE when caring for unnacompanied minors. According to Amnesty Ireland, Over 400 children have "vanished" and the government's responsiblility in tackling the trafficking of children is another obligation which is highlighted.

The launch of this year's report,in Buswell's Hotel, was attended by about 50 journalists and activists and a number of those present showed little or no confidence in the HSE. Winding up proceedings, Noeleen Hartigan, Amnesty Programme Director, told those present that torture and rendition were a continuing difficulty for human rights in 2010 and she praised the Ombudsman for her "forensic analysis".