NIC-ICTU statement in support of academic freedom and free expression
Speaking today, ICTU General Secretary Owen Reidy commented:
“NIC-ICTU and its affiliated trade unions and trades councils stand in support with the internationally respected legal academic Prof Colin Harvey.
“Professor Harvey is a legal human rights expert of many years standing and active in his trade union, UCU. As both, he has stood up for the rights of other people. Now that his right to exercise both free expression and academic freedom are under attack, the trade union movement supports Professor Harvey.
“The Belfast/Good Friday Agreement advocates and guarantees the right to pursue the constitutional aspirations of either remaining in the UK, or changing through constitutional means a united Ireland.
“Every citizen presently enjoys that right, and a campaign of vilification towards one citizen undermines that common benefit for everyone.
“The trade union movement will universally support the right to free expression within a framework of respect for the rights of other citizens, be it in academia, the media or any public sphere.”
ENDS
Contact: John O’Farrell – 07808 582546
