I do not have information on recruitment practice in the wider public service as this is a matter for relevant Ministers. As Minister for Finance, my responsibility for the Civil Service lies with the Civil Service Commissioners who are responsible for recruitment. Competitions advertised by the commissioners are open to all, including people with disabilities, subject to their meeting the eligibility requirements of the competition in question. Application forms invite applicants to indicate if they have special requirements when undergoing the selection process and the commissioners make every effort to facilitate these requests.
The Government has a 3% target for the employment of people with a disability in the Civil Service. The annual survey undertaken by my Department of the position on the employment of staff with a disability in the Civil Service shows that 931 people with a disability were employed at the end of December 2002, which is equivalent to 2.8% of total numbers. This compares with 891 people, 2.78% in 2001 and 758 people, 2.56% in 2000. Figures for end December 2003 are being compiled. From time to time general service recruitment competitions have been held specifically for those with disabilities. The last clerical officer competition advertised for people with disabilities was in 1999.
My Department commissioned independent research into the operation of the 3% target and the career progression of people with a disability in the Civil Service. The report provides useful information about the position of people with a disability working in the Civil Service and makes recommendations for practical steps which can be taken to make certain that the Government's policy operates effectively for the benefit of people with a disability. In the light of the consultants' recommendations, proposals to improve the operation of the policy have been approved by the Government. Discussions are under way between the equality unit in my Department and the Civil Service staff unions on the recommendations. The aim is to agree a new joint approach to the implementation of the target to improve the existing policy for the benefit of people with disability throughout their careers in the Civil Service, to ensure that the importance of the policy is emphasised and that Departments are given assistance in meeting the aims of the policy. Consideration will be given to holding special competitions for people with a disability in the light of these discussions.
