Former Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland Nuala O’Loan is to be appointed to the House of Lords, it was announced today.
Dame Nuala, who spearheaded investigations into the police’s handling of the Omagh bomb and other controversial inquiries, said she was deeply honoured.
“I see my appointment as a wonderful opportunity to continue to make a contribution. Throughout my career I have always tried to bring an independence of thought to issues in a way which would benefit people and enhance the services they get,” she said.
“I hope my experience will be of value to the House of Lords.”
Dame Nuala is a solicitor and former law lecturer at the University of Ulster.
She was the first Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland in 2000 and upon leaving the post in 2007 was appointed Special Commissioner to the Equality Human Rights Commissions (UK) to chair a formal investigation into human rights. The report of that inquiry was published in June.
She is working with the Home Office on a project looking at allegations of abuse by people being deported from the UK.
Dame Nuala is the Irish Government’s roving ambassador for conflict resolution and its special envoy for Timor Leste and for women, peace and security. She is also a member of an independent group for dialogue and peace in the Basque country.
Sir Jonathan Sacks was also elevated. Sir Jonathan Sacks is Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth. He became Chief Rabbi in 1991. He has sought to use the post to renew and unite British Jewry.
The chairman of the House of Lords Appointments Commission, Michael Jay, said he was pleased to announce the appointment of two independent people of such high quality.
PA