A/HRC/4/6 page 7 6. There is also an urgent need to establish an information management system for storing and analysing statements and other information received in the statement-taking process that commenced in October 2006. A number of aspects of the statement-taking process were heavily criticized by interlocutors. The absence of any apparent mechanism to protect the guarantee of confidentiality or forms of protection to be provided to victims, perpetrators and statement-takers was highlighted. A number of interlocutors questioned the effectiveness of the vetting process. The need to incorporate a gender perspective into this exercise was emphasized so that the participation of women could be facilitated and they would be encouraged to provide statements. 7. This situation needs to be addressed urgently, as an effective TRC can play a central role at this time of transition and in the ongoing reconciliation efforts being undertaken in Liberia. The elaboration of clear terms of reference for the ITAC members together with the establishment of an effective secretariat would contribute to the effective and efficient running of this institution. C. Independent National Human Rights Commission 8. The enabling legislation for this body, which was drafted following nationwide consultations and with the technical support of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), was signed into law in March 2005. It will have a broad mandate that includes making recommendations to the Government on the prevailing human rights situation. The appointment of commissioners of integrity, experience and skill to serve on this body is of utmost importance. It is to be hoped that this selection process can be completed as soon as possible, and that the experience gained in the establishment of TRC will be taken into account. At the time of writing a list of 11 names had been submitted to the President by the nominating body for possible appointment. II. THE LEGISLATURE 9. The heads of parliamentary subcommittees admitted to a lack of knowledge and awareness of the TRC process. They would welcome a workshop on TRC, and in their role as parliamentarians, would be anxious to see that the terms of the Act are being respected. They could also play an important role in dissemination of information among their constituents. The progress to date by the commission, which was due to complete the statement-taking process in January 2007, was an issue of concern. The point was strongly made that an evaluation of the international role in the conflict should also be undertaken so that a full understanding of events could be obtained. 10. In relation to the enforcement of the Rape Law, a shortage of lawyers, and specifically of prosecutors, was identified as a possible impediment to implementation. The potential for recruiting lawyers from private practice to conduct prosecutions, as an interim measure, was raised. The parliamentarians agreed that they have a definite oversight responsibility on this issue and would move towards a more proactive approach. The legislature is also taking steps to join the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), which it sees as an important avenue for strengthening its capacity and professionalism.