Theresa Ahearn
Question:223 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Finance if he will introduce legislation to promote equality for people with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14869/97]
Written Answers - Equality Legislation.
As Minister with responsibility for the conditions of service in the Civil Service, I am committed to a policy of equality of opportunity for all staff. In 1994, a Code of Practice for the Employment of People with Disabilities in the Civil Service was published. It provides a written statement of the policy in relation to ensuring equality of opportunity for people with disabilities in the Civil Service and covers such issues as recruitment, reception and integration into the workplace, career development, accommodation and equipment, safety and evacuation procedures.
Under the Government's programme of legislation, the introduction of legislation in relation to equality for people with disabilities is the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.