Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 28 Apr 1993

Vol. 429 No. 7

Written Answers. - Public Service Recruitment.

Martin Cullen

Question:

36 Mr. Cullen asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform his views on whether imposing an upper age limit of 50 years for appointments in the public services is acceptable in this, the European Year of the Elderly; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Equality and Law Reform (Mr. Taylor)

In accordance with the commitments in the Programme for a Partnership Government, I am examining the question of legislation to prohibit discrimination on a wide range of grounds including age. My Department is already engaging in extensive consultations in the preparation of appropriate legislation in this regard.

I have sought the views of the National Youth Council, the National Council for the Elderly, the Irish Employers and Business Confederation and other representative bodies on the proposal.

Pending the introduction of new legislation, the adoption of a particular upper age limit as mentioned by the Deputy is primarily a matter for the Minister or public authority with direct responsibility for recruitment to the public sector employment concerned.