Independent Monitoring Commission Explained

The Independent Monitoring Commission (IMC) was an organisation founded on 7 January 2004, by an agreement between the British and Irish governments, signed in Dublin on 25 November 2003.[1] The IMC concluded its operations on 31 March 2011.[2]

Remit

The IMC's remit included:

The IMC submits formal reports to both the British Government and Irish Government.

The body has faced criticism from Sinn Féin due to the manner in which it was set up as an apparent sop to Unionists. In a debate in Dáil Éireann Aengus Ó Snodaigh referred to it as "three spooks and a lord".[3] Sinn Féin have issued legal proceedings against the IMC, through their solicitors in London, Howe & Co, alleging that the IMC Commissioners are "apparently biased" and challenging the IMC's application (or non-application) of a standard of proof in its assessments and reports presented to the two Governments.

Since its founding the IMC has issued 22 reports, including 3 ad hoc reports. Two ad hoc reports were issued on the initiative of the IMC, while one (the 19th) was requested by both state governments.[4]

Commissioners

Four commissioners were involved:

Chronology and list of reports

2015

In 2015 the UK and Irish governments gave consideration to reviving the commission after alleged breaches of ceasefires.[5] Since the IMC finished its work, some weapons recovered by the police had been linked to paramilitaries.[6]

See also

External links

Notes and References

  1. http://www.oireachtas.ie/documents/bills28/acts/2003/a4003.pdf The Independent Monitoring Commission Act 2003
  2. News: Independent Monitoring Commission submits final report . . 14 March 2011.
  3. News: Flanagan labelled 'a Blueshirt muckraker'. .
  4. http://www.independentmonitoringcommission.org/documents/uploads/ACF1599.pdf 19th IMC report
  5. News: UK and Ireland signal support for revival of NI monitoring commission . Henry . McDonald . The Guardian . 1 September 2015 . 11 May 2016.
  6. News: Alderdice against recreating Independent Monitoring Commission . Henry . McDonald . . 4 September 2015 . 11 May 2016.