Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 January 2023
430. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will provide an update on the review of the Equality Acts currently under way in his Department, particularly in relation to the implementation of the recommendations detailed in the report on the prevalence and use of non-disclosure agreements in discrimination and sexual harassment disputes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2826/23]
View answerThe ongoing review of the Equality Acts is examining the use of non-disclosure agreements by employers in cases of sexual harassment and discrimination. Issues that were raised in the Private Member's Bill, the Employment Equality (Amendment) (Non-Disclosure Agreement) Bill 2021, are also being carefully considered as part of the review along with the recommendations detailed in the report on the prevalence and use of non-disclosure agreements in discrimination and sexual harassment disputes, that was carried out by my Department.
The Department invited written submissions to a public consultation on the review of the equality legislation in 2021 and these submissions have been analysed by officials in my Department. A report outlining the findings of the public consultation will be published in early 2023.
Legislative proposals that arise out of the review of the Equality Acts will be brought forward in 2023, however, the nature of these proposals will be dependent on the issues raised in the consultation process as well as on further research.
