Vol. 506 No. 2
71 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the positive equality measures in place within his Department to ensure that minority groups in society have the opportunity to gain employment and to progress through the promotional ladder within his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15371/99]
I understand that the Deputy is referring to my Department as an employer. In this regard, I can confirm that a policy of equal opportunity applies to all campaigns for the recruitment of staff conducted by my Department. In relation to internal promotional outlets, every opportunity and careful consideration is given to all staff especially those that experience disadvantage.
My commitment to the enhancement of employment opportunities for people in minority groups is reflected in measures already in place. On taking up office, I ensured that priority was given, within the equality agenda, to the finalisation of revised employment equality legislation which resulted in the enactment of the Employment Equality Act, 1998. The Act prohibits discrimination in relation to employment on nine grounds – gender, marital status, family status, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, race and membership of the traveller community. The Act outlaws discrimination on any of the discriminatory grounds in relation to all areas relevant to employment, including access to employment and promotion. The target date for implementation of the Act is 1 September 1999.
