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Guidelines on paramilitary past Old convictions 'no bar to jobs'
(21 minutes later)
Guidelines have been published asking employers in Northern Ireland to ignore "conflict related convictions". Paramilitary convictions should not be a hinderence when it comes to getting a job in Northern Ireland, according to new guidelines.
They are the result of a government commitment at St Andrews to work with businesses, trade unions and ex-prisoner groups. The government gave a commitment to work with businesses, trade unions and ex-prisoner groups during the St Andrews talks in October 2006.
It is estimated that up to 30,000 people have spent time in prison due to the Troubles. The Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister said the guidance would be reviewed in 18 months.
The Good Friday Agreement recognised the role of prisoners in the peace process. Up to 30,000 people have spent time in prison as a result of the Troubles.