Transgender policy will not be adopted without elected member scrutiny

A NEW Trans Equality Policy that covers arrangements for council-run toilets and changing rooms will not be implemented without scrutiny from elected members.

While the policy has been drafted by officials, its progress through Causeway Coast and Glens committee structure has been stalled by “legislative uncertainty.”

The update on the council’s Trans Equality Structure was delivered to councillors on Tuesday when they gathered for their only meeting of the summer.

Members were presented with a report on how the council has been fulfilling its obligations around equality under Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act.

While the report was adopted it noted that: “a trans equality policy has been drafted during the reporting period, however due to recent legislative uncertainty this has been put on hold until further guidance can be provided by the Equality Commission.”

It’s understood “legislative uncertainty” arose from a Supreme Court ruling earlier this year that the legal definition of a woman is based on biological sex.

It was TUV Councillor Allister Kyle sought clarity on whether he and his colleagues would be given the opportunity to scrutinise the redrafted policy before it was adopted.

He was told the policy was “currently with the Equality Commission” and officers were awaiting “further guidance and advice.”

But added the officer, “It will be brought forward to CPR (Corporate Policy and Resources Committee) in due course.”

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