“The CHRP reports that it does not have adequate resources to effectively fulfil its mandate, including as the NPM. 

The SCA emphasizes that, to function effectively, an NHRI must be provided with an appropriate level of funding in order to guarantee its independence and its ability to freely determine its priorities and activities. It must also have the power to allocate funding according to these priorities. In particular, adequate funding should, to a reasonable degree, ensure the gradual and progressive realisation of the improvement of the NHRI’s operation and the fulfillment of its mandate. 

Provision of adequate funding by the State should, at a minimum, include the following: 

a) the allocation of funds for premises which are accessible to the wider community, including for persons with disabilities. In certain circumstances, in order to promote independence and accessibility, this may require that offices are not co-located with other government agencies. Where possible, accessibility should be further enhanced by establishing a permanent regional presence; 

b) salaries and benefits awarded to staff comparable to those of civil servants performing similar tasks in other independent institutions of the State; 

c) remuneration of members of its decision-making body (where appropriate); 

d) the establishment of a well-functioning communications system including telephone and internet; and 

e) the allocation of a sufficient amount of resources for mandated activities. Where an NHRI has been designated with additional responsibilities by the State, additional financial resources should be provided to enable it to assume the responsibilities of discharging these functions. 

The SCA encourages the CHRP to advocate for the funding necessary to ensure that it can effectively carry out its mandate.”