My Department is responsible for ensuring that all persons employed in the Civil Service work in an environment that is free from bullying and harassment. The Civil Service policy on harassment, sexual harassment and bullying, A Positive Working Environment, was introduced in July 2000 following an agreement between management and the Civil Service staff unions at General Council. The policy is based on best practice in this area and meets the standards set out in the code of practice provided by the Health and Safety Authority. The policy applies to all persons employed directly by Government Departments and to persons employed by bodies under the aegis of Government Departments.
It is the responsibility of public service organisations to develop their own policies in this regard. Figures available to December 2003 indicate that Departments have received approximately 165 complaints under the policy. Of these, 109 complaints were the subject of formal investigations under the policy.
The management of claims under the policy is a matter for each Department and Office. The policy is reviewed and monitored by my Department, in consultation with personnel officers and staff unions. As part of this process an informal review of the policy is almost complete. The conclusions of the review and any agreed recommendations arising from it will inform the development of the policy into the future.
