A new Human Rights Tribunal panel has been selected to adjudicate on complaints of human rights abuses.

The 13 members were appointed by an independent selection committee and will be empanelled for the next three years.

A Human Rights Commission spokesman pointed out that under recent changes in the law, the new panel will operate outside the commission, “marking a significant step in ensuring that Bermuda has a truly independent Human Rights Tribunal to safeguard human rights”.

Seth Darrell, who led the selection committee, said it “sought to attract a dedicated and capable group of persons reflective of Bermuda’s community to serve as a steward of human rights for Bermuda and her residents”.

Mr Darrell added that the committee had followed United Nations guidelines “which fosters a public and inclusive application process ensuring an independent and impartial selection process”.

He said: “We were best pleased by the level of public engagement and the diverse group of persons, both new and previous applicants, who lodged applications to serve such a critically important quasi-judicial role.

“This is a tremendous opportunity and a tremendous responsibility to be a stalwart of Bermuda’s human rights institution, meaningfully steering the protection and promotion of human rights in Bermuda for all her residents.

“We wish to convey wholehearted thanks to each applicant who expressed interest and espoused commitment to shepherding the protection of human rights in Bermuda.”

The panel members are: Christina Herrero (chairman), Steven White (deputy chairman), Julia Aidoo-Saltus, Fiona Bada, Elaine Butterfield, Malcolm Clarke, Christopher Cunningham, Dawn Eversley, Sita Ingram, LeVince Roberts, Casey Schuler, Claire van Overdijk and James Webster.

For more information, click here or e-mail SAC@gov.bm.