Departmental Functions

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 January 2017

Tuesday, 17 January 2017

Questions (104)

Jim O'Callaghan

Question:

104. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Taoiseach if his Department has complied with section 42 of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014 which requires his Department to set out, in a manner that is accessible to the public in its strategic plan, an assessment of the human rights and equality issues it views to be relevant to the functions and purpose of his Department; and the policies, plans and actions in place or proposed to be put in place to address those issues. [1761/17]

Written answers

The Taoiseach

My Department is fully aware and committed to meeting new Public Sector duty requirements set out in the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014 which outlines how all public sector bodies must incorporate human rights and equality into the performance of their functions.

Arising from my own Department's engagement with the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission, my department set out to all Departments their obligations under Section 42 of the 2014 Act in the context of guidance issued earlier this year to assist departments in the preparation of their Strategy Statements.

My own Department's Strategy Statement, which will be published shortly, reflects its commitment to the new Public Sector Duty obligations and will undertake a more comprehensive assessment of human rights and equality issues having regard to its role in policy development and providing services and its responsibilities as an employer.