Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 December 2018
249. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on a recent study (details supplied) by the EU Agency for Fundamental Rights which shows a high level of discrimination in the workplace against sub-Saharan Africans here; the steps he plans to take to oppose discrimination experienced by immigrants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50548/18]
View answerWith respect to the study referred to by the Deputy, I am conscious of the issues raised, particularly regarding issues relating to employment among people of African origin in Ireland.
In response, the Migrant Integration Strategy includes an action specifically committing the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection to undertake an analysis to assess the extent to which the level of joblessness among jobseekers of African origin exceeds that of other groups. This analysis has been completed and the report is currently being finalised. Once finalised, the report will be used to determine what action, if any, is required to address its findings. I am committed to working with all relevant stakeholders to improve outcomes in this area.
As the Deputy will be aware, Ireland has comprehensive and robust equality legislation in place, namely the Employment Equality Acts 1998-2015 and the Equal Status Acts 2000-2015. Discrimination in the workplace in Ireland is covered by the Employment Equality Acts 1998-2015, which prohibit discrimination on nine grounds including race. This legislation is designed to promote equality, to prohibit discrimination and victimisation, and allows for positive measures to ensure full equality across the nine grounds.
