Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 July 2021
179. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Defence the way his Department and public bodies and agencies under his remit are implementing Action 32 of the National Disability and Inclusion Strategy 2017-2021 (details supplied). [38505/21]
View answerThe National Disability Inclusion Strategy (NDIS) 2017-2021 is the key framework for policy and action to address the needs of people with disabilities. Its aim is to improve the lives of people with disabilities in Ireland.
My Department is committed to doing all that is reasonable to assist people with disabilities seeking to avail of or access statutory entitlements or services provided by or under statute. It should be noted that my Department does not operate any public offices, nor does it generally supply direct services to the public.
The only State body currently under the aegis of my Department is the Army Pensions Board which is an independent statutory body, established under the Army Pensions Act 1927 and consisting of a chairman and two ordinary members. The Secretary to the Board is provided from the staff of my Department and therefore, any service requests will be supplied by my Department.
In compliance with Part 5 of the Disability Act 2005, my Department has undertaken, where practicable, to promote and support the employment of people with disabilities. The Department continues to operate in a non-discriminatory environment in accordance with the Equality Acts and aims to ensure that the principles of employment equality are implemented in recruitment, promotion, training and work experience. Recruitment to my Department is open to all applicants, and reasonable accommodation is afforded to those with a declared disability.
I will continue to work with my Government colleagues on matters arising in the area of disability.
