Assembly backs calls for client confidentiality

THE ASSEMBLY has backed a DUP call to extend rights of client confidentiality to Stormont members.

The move follows the failure by Ian Paisley jnr to meet demands from the Billy Wright inquiry that he identify a serving senior prison officer and constituent who passed sensitive information relevant to the case of the former loyalist leader shot dead in the Maze prison.

He could face a custodial sentence if found to be in contempt.

Mr Paisley jnr received information about the destruction of files relating to the case and he passed this in turn to David Wright, father of the murdered prisoner.

Lord MacLean, chairman of the Wright inquiry has asked the High Court to consider the case, believing it was unreasonable for Mr Paisley jnr to refuse to identify his source.

It is the first time a High Court has been called to question the position of an elected public representative in such circumstances. It is due to consider the case on Friday.

Speaking in the Assembly last night, Mr Paisley said: “Should members be bullied, be pushed, be squeezed in order to name constituents in order to satisfy someone else’s ego? Or should the rights and liberties of the people of Northern Ireland, which we should jealously guard, be protected by our actions and our judgment?”

There were no votes against the motion. Sinn Féin members abstained.