Vol. 510 No. 4
31 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Finance the number to be recruited through the clerical officer competition for people with disabilities; if similar competitions will be held for other grades; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19710/99]
It is not possible to give a precise answer as to the number of people to be recruited through the competition in question. This will be determined by a number of factors, including the numbers who apply, the numbers who qualify following the written tests and the number of vacancies in Departments which may be filled by recruits from this competition, during the period of the panel. My Department, in co-operation with the Civil Service Commission, will seek to ensure that the optimal number of appointments are made from this competition.
This particular competition is being run on a pilot basis. The approach to competitions for other grades will be reviewed in the light of the outcome and experience gained by my Department and the Civil Service Commission in the operation of this clerical officer competition.
The Civil Service, as an employer, is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all staff, including staff with disabilities. Since 1994 a code of practice for the employment of people with disabilities in the Civil Service has been in place. The code of practice covers issues such as recruitment, reception and integration into the workplace, career development, accommodation, equipment, safety and evacuation procedures. The implementation of the code of practice is monitored by a committee representative of staff and management. In addition, in the context of the strategic management initiative in the Civil Service, equality issues, including issues relating to the employment of people with disabilities. are being examined by a committee set up specifically for this purpose.
