Dr Fiona de Londras speaks at the Scottish Parliament
UCD School of Law lecturer, Fiona de Londras, was invited to address Members of the Scottish Parliament, parliamentary researchers and the broader academic community at the Scottish Parliament earlier this month. Speaking to the theme of “Counter-Terrorist Law Making: Panic, Politics and Human Rights”, de Londras presented a critical reflection on the record of counter-terrorist legislation in the United Kingdom since the attacks of 11 September 2001.
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Although the Scottish Parliament does not have devolved powers in the realm of counter-terrorism, the current Scottish executive proposes to hold a referendum on Scottish independence which, if passed, would mean that the Scottish government would have such powers. Reflecting on lessons learned from the broader UK experience, de Londras noted that in such an eventuality consideration ought to be given to the possible benefits of introducing an upper house of the Scottish Parliament and a formal, human rights committee with responsibility for rights-based scrutiny of proposed legislation.
Academics in UCD School of Law have a long record of presenting evidence and research to both the Irish and other parliaments, reflecting the School’s historically strong emphasis on ensuring that academic research impacts on policy and practice as well as advancing knowledge and enhancing teaching within the School.
