We Must Oppose Orwellian Public Health Powers

We Must Oppose Orwellian Public Health Powers - Brolly

Aontú Deputy Leader Gemma Brolly has slammed proposals for a new Public Health Bill in the North that includes provision to deprive persons of their liberty as part of regulations in response to a 'threat to public health'.

Speaking today, Mrs Brolly said:

"The Department of Health are currently holding a consultation on possible inclusions in a new Public Health Bill. Within its provisions, the consultation document outlines that regulations may be included in legislation that may permit warrants for the Public Health Agency to enter premises by force, to impose a 'special restriction or requirement' such as requiring a person to be vaccinated, for them to be detained in a hospital or that the person may well be subject to restrictions as to where a person may go or with whom the person has contact. These are only a number of the shocking proposals which erode our freedoms.

This language is absolutely unacceptable. It is born of Orwell, and oversteps any lawful authority that any Government has even during a public health emergency. Moreover this is an extremely concerning infringement on human rights.

Aontú absolutely oppose the inclusion of these draconian provisions within any legislation, and we would go further and ask how the Health Minister could approve this consultation. He should rescind this document immediately and seriously ask if these officials genuinely think that these provisions are realistic, legal or enforceable."

ENDS

The Irish political system is radically broken

In Ireland the vast majority of elected representatives put a finger in the air to check which way the political wind is blowing. They have one eye on their leaders – seeking brownie points – and another eye keeping their seat safe. If elected reps shut up and do as they’re told, they are promoted; if they stand up for what they believe in, they are demoted. No wonder we have the political class we have. No wonder one point one billion euro is being buried in a hole under the National Children’s Hospital and that Stormont is in stalemate.

Throughout Ireland, many people are now afraid to say what they feel, many are afraid to respectfully engage on a range of different topics. Many feel there is a new censorship and a new political correctness in Ireland, that opposition to the establishment is being deleted.

Respectful opposition is not the enemy. Respectful opposition is a critical element of a functional democracy. Aontú will have the backbone to stand up, without fear, for you.