Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 29 June 2021
87. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the way his Department and public bodies and agencies under his remit fulfil their obligations section 42 of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34853/21]
View answerThe Department, in its dealings with staff, stakeholders and citizens, is committed to the public service ethos of independence, integrity, impartiality, fairness and respect. To ensure that staff are aware of their roles and responsibilities in promoting Equality, Diversity and Inclusion they undertake mandatory Diversity and Inclusion training on an annual basis. The Department is currently working with its staff through its Diversity and Inclusion Group to develop a new strategic plan to identify and address the human rights and equality issues relevant to its purpose and functions. The establishment of this Group was delayed due to Covid-19. All progress and achievements will be reported annually in a manner accessible to the Public. The information requested in relation to the agencies under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each agency. The Department will request the relevant bodies to reply directly to the Deputy with the information requested in respect of their organisations.
