Martin Cullen
Question:29 Mr. Cullen asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform if he will initiate research to clarify the reason some work areas employ mostly men and others mostly women; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Gender Segregation in Employment.
The issue of why some work areas employ mostly men and others mostly women is only one dimension of the overall phenomenon of gender segregation in employment. This question is widely recognised as one which is not fully explained by examining employment practices. Education and training can be key determinants as can broader attitudes and traditions in society.
There is undoubtedly value in providing greater insight into gender segregation through research whether in education, employment or any other sphere of activity in society. The recent ESRI report on wage differentials between men and women was jointly commissioned by my Department and the Employment Equality Agency. The agency is also involved in research on trends in gender segregation in employment since the introduction of equality legislation. This study will avail of the most recent data available from the 1992 Labour Force survey.
Pending the outcome of that study I would not propose to initiate a further study along the lines proposed by the Deputy. However, I will request the agency to review the question of what further research in this area might contribute to addressing any policy and action gaps which might exist.