The Equality Rights Group (ERG) has written to the Chief Minister urging him to restore the freedom of assembly.

A statement from Felix Alvarez, Chairman of the ERG, follows below:

For some time now, we have been receiving a number of reports from individuals and community associations alleging restrictions imposed on their right to public protest and or assembly. It is a matter that, in the context of the on-going pandemic, is of concern to all.

We cannot fault those in authority with a responsibility for safeguarding the safety of our community for taking steps to exercise their duty in this respect. With the scarcity of proven information that existed in the opening months, it was difficult. However, after six months, and at a time when we are now much more aware and knowledgeable about effective measures to control the spread of the virus (social distancing and use of masks), it is now time to reconsider the management of as fundamental a constitutional right as that of freedom of assembly, and to restore proportionality.

I have therefore written to the Chief Minister today to invite him and his government to reassess the situation as it stands today. In our view as a human and civil rights organisation, it is imperative for all of us to be vigilant not only of the physical but also the democratic health of this community. And, given the very real possibility of social distancing and mask discipline being required and strictly enforced, a more proportionate response from government would alleviate the imbalance all round.

We await government’s response and will continue to study the situation.