Niamh Smyth
Question:158. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the progress made on the equality objectives of his Department specifically in relation to women. [11072/22]
View answerTuesday, 1 March 2022
Questions (158)
Written answers
My Department is committed to providing an inclusive work environment for all colleagues. Our Statement of Strategy, Le Chéile 23, is underpinned by the values set out in the Civil Service Renewal Plan and is committed to human rights, equality and anti-discrimination. A key action for 2022 arising from this is Ag Obair Le Chéile. This is a comprehensive action plan to develop the Department's people, culture and organisation to deliver, improve and transform the Department.
As part of Ag Obair le Chéile, my Department will develop and deliver a People Strategy in 2022 and adopt a new blended working policy. Gender equality is a key focus within these deliverables.
The Department’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Group was established last year with the aim to promote an inclusive and diverse workplace. This Group is a cross representative group and will play an integral role in driving forward the Department’s vision for inclusion, diversity and equality to create a fairer and more inclusive workspace. A gender equality sub group has been established as part of EDI group. Work is currently progressing on a Gender Equality Plan for the Department. This work, the recommendations of the EDI group, and all staff, will feed into the Department’s People Strategy.
A programme of events has been scheduled around International Women’s Day, including a focus group on the Gender Equality Plan and seminars on Menopause in the Workplace, Inclusive Parenting, and Addressing Bias. My Department provides private and comfortable rooms in each of its locations that can be used by staff for lactation breaks if they choose. My Department makes feminine hygiene products available in bathrooms in it’s headquarters location and will work with anchor tenants and other locations to make products available in the near future.