Disability Act Employment Targets

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 10 February 2021

Wednesday, 10 February 2021

Questions (550)

Holly Cairns

Question:

550. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth the target quarter for the introduction of the commitment in the programme for Government to double the target for employment of persons with disabilities in the public service to 6%; if these targets will be changed on a phased basis or in one go; if on a phased basis, when he plans to commence the phasing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6913/21]

Written answers

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth

There is a commitment to increase the employment of persons with disabilities in the public service to 6% (from 3%) under the Comprehensive Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities 2015 -2024. The Programme for Government includes a commitment to finalise the legislation required to increase the target and my Department is currently working on this legislation. It is planned that the legislation to this effect will be finalised this year and it is the intention that the target of 6% will be implemented thereafter on a phased basis.