Theresa Ahearn
Question:362 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for the Environment and Local Government if he will introduce legislation to promote equality for people with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14895/97]
Written Answers - Equality Legislation.
As the Deputy will no doubt be aware the recommendations in the report of the Commission on the Status of People with Disabilities are currently being examined by an interdepartmental task force, under the aegis of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. My Department is represented on this task force. The task force is drawing up a detailed plan of action on the rights of people with disabilities based on the commission's report; this is due to be completed by the end of the year, when the plan of action will be presented to Government.
Any new or amending legislation, required to give effect to the implementation of any recommendations relevant to my Department's area of responsibility, will be considered in the light of the task force's report and any Government decisions thereon.