Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 June 2021
178. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the way in which his Department and agencies under his remit are working towards enabling access to employment for persons from minority and or disadvantaged communities, including, but not limited to, persons with disabilities, persons from ethnic minorities, Travellers, Mincéirí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32737/21]
View answerThe Department of Social Protection has lead responsibility for labour market activation, and supporting underrepresented groups into employment. While my Department does not have responsibility for operating any employment programmes or funding any support services targeted specifically at minority or disadvantaged communities, we deal with the broader area of job creation and work to promote a diverse and equal workforce for all sections of society. Members of minority communities are able to access funding and support from the enterprise agencies and Local Enterprise Offices on the same basis as other members of the public.
My Department also leads the Government’s Corporate Social Responsibility agenda and seeks to encourage business to develop strategies to integrate diversity in the workplace.
In addition, as a member of the Comprehensive Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities Implementation Group, my Department has committed to highlight the supports that are available to facilitate the employment of people with disabilities in the open labour market, or to retain in the workforce employees who acquire a disability.
The Economic Recovery Plan commits to supporting employers in the recruitment and retention of people with disabilities and developing initiatives to improve employment opportunities for those with disabilities in rural areas including through remote working options. Under Pathways to Work 2021- 2025, an Early Engagement model for jobseekers with disabilities will be introduced, and wider take-up of incentives and supports available for the employment of people with disabilities will be promoted.
