Detailed information is available on the Human Rights web site in the Guidance International agreement on promoting sustainable development was reached All policies need to be proofed or have their impact assessed against a wide OFMDFM has developed an In

7.13 This will have a significant impact on the work of the NI departments. Everyone

in a department, or an agency, or in a public body, will need to be aware of the effect the ECHR might have on their work. If your job has an impact on the rights of individuals, you will need to bear in mind the need to comply with the Convention. You will need to be aware of the possibility of your decisions, or decisions taken by Ministers acting on your advice, being challenged on ECHR grounds.

7.14 Where necessary, existing legislation must be examined to identify provisions

which might not be compatible with the ECHR and future policy and legislation developed taking account of the ECHR, the Human Rights Act and the Northern Ireland Act. There must be a statement that the human rights implications of the proposed policylegislation have been assessed and that the Minister is satisfied that the proposals are compatible with Convention Rights as incorporated by the Human Rights Act 1998. If such a statement cannot be made then there has to be an explanation.

7.15 Detailed information is available on the Human Rights web site in the Guidance

Section and in particular The Human Rights Act 1998 Guidance for Northern Ireland Departments. Each Department also has a designated Human Rights contact. You are encouraged to seek further advice, particularly from departmental solicitors. Sustainable development

7.16 International agreement on promoting sustainable development was reached

at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. In its Programme for Government, the Executive endorsed the principles of sustainable development, which are aimed at ensuring that society and the economy develop in ways that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This involves effective protection of the environment and the 41 7 prudent use of natural resources, with at the same time high and stable levels of economic growth. Promoting Sustainable Living - A Discussion Paper on Proposals for a Sustainable Development Strategy for Northern Ireland was published by the DoE in 2002. Impact assessments

7.17 All policies need to be proofed or have their impact assessed against a wide

range of criteria. All policies where screening indicates that it is necessary need to undergo Equality Impact Assessment under Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998. Proofing is also necessary in relation to New TSN and Human Rights, and there are requirements introduced either by the Executive or as a result of UK Government or international obligations for environmental, rural, regulatory and health impact assessments. Sustainability assessment is also likely to be a requirement in the future.

7.18 OFMDFM has developed an Integrated Impact Assessment tool IIA to help

policy makers undertake the various impact assessment processes and provide a structured format for the presentation of their results. This tool is now available for piloting by departments, with a view to refining it for full introduction by early 2004. The tool, which is available on the OFMDFM Policy Link website, also includes links to detailed guidance on the various forms of impact assessment. Review of Public Administration

7.19 A major Review of Public Administration RPA was launched by the Executive