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Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 1 May 1996

Vol. 464 No. 7

Written Answers. - National Rehabilitation Board Recruitment.

Michael Woods

Question:

39 Dr. Woods asked the Minister for Health his views on whether the employment by the Government's statutory agency with responsibility for people with disabilities, the National Rehabilitation Board, of 8.5 per cent of this group is to be regarded as appropriate affirmative action on its behalf; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6280/96]

, Limerick East): Recruitment to the National Rehabilitation Board (NRB) is conducted in accordance with the norms governing recruitment in the public service. The percentage of people with disabilities employed by the NRB is well in excess of the 3 per cent quota for employment in the public service.

All full time, permanent posts are filled by way of public advertisement and open competition. NRB is an equal opportunities employer and this is stated in all its recruitment advertisements. Persons are appointed on the basis of qualifications and general suitability for the posts.

NRB's policy is to interview applicants with disabilities, providing their application demonstrates sufficient qualification/training/experience to render them available for consideration for appointment. No applicant is selected for interview or appointment solely on the basis of having a disability nor are they turned down for interview or appointment because of having a disability.

NRB also uses opportunities as they arise, within the constraints of budget and employment control mechanisms in the public service, to provide disabled job-seekers with work experience in NRB so as to enhance their employment prospects.

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