DUP response to Public Health Bill Consultation by DUP on Scribd
Commenting, the DUP’s Health Spokesperson Diane Dodds MLA said:
‘‘The Health Minister’s refusal to scrap this consultation – despite bizarrely distancing himself from some of its most divisive elements - has undermined public confidence and will undoubtedly make the path to agreement on a new Public Health Bill even more challenging.
Whilst the DUP recognises the need to act swiftly during times of crisis, we do not believe the proposals currently under consideration strike a fair balance between fulfilling public health objectives and defending personal liberty as the cornerstone of any democratic society.
We are absolutely clear that sweeping powers should not be handed to the Minister of Health to impose restrictions which directly impact private and family life, education, employment and movement. The lived experience of the Covid-19 pandemic demonstrates that these powers - and the lockdowns they enabled - led to major social and economic disruption, had serious, adverse effects on personal health and wellbeing, and derailed the educational and emotional development of many children and young people.
In particular, the DUP will continue to reject mandatory vaccination or plans to compel citizens to undergo other forms of medical treatment. Any future public health framework for Northern Ireland must be underpinned, both in law and in practice, by the principle of informed consent.
All of this represents a huge overreach and must be rejected. The Department must go back to the drawing board. The aim of ensuring our health service is not overwhelmed during future emergencies is a laudable one. However, it does not justify a grave and disproportionate interference with the fundamental rights and dignity of individuals in our society.’’