Lawyer Tawana Tannock is the new chairwoman of the Human Rights Commission.

Ms Tannock, who has been appointed for the 2016-18 term, is joined by deputy chairman John Hindess and commissioners Ben Adamson, Carla Lambert, Kim Simmons, Donna Daniels, Franklin Fahnbulleh, Jens Juul, Quinton Butterfield, Dany Pen, Carolyn Thomas Ray, and Jonathan Young.

They will be responsible for adjudicating complaints of discrimination and act as educators and advocates in the promotion and protection of human rights.

Lisa Reed, executive officer of the Human Rights Commission, said: “2016 is set to hold historic progression for the HRC as a national human rights institution as it transitions to a non-ministry department with increased levels of independence.

“We welcome the incoming members and the vital role they play in working with the office to promote a culture of human rights, where our rights are better understood, respected, promoted and protected.”

Outgoing chairman Michael Hanson stated: “Being selected as a human rights commissioner is among the most important public services in Bermuda.”