Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 20 September 2023
49. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications to provide details on the measures his Department has taken to implement specific action points (details supplied) of the action plan to support the National LGBTI+ Inclusion Strategy 2019-2021. [40230/23]
View answerMy Department is committed to providing an inclusive environment for all colleagues, stakeholders, and citizens. Our Statement of Strategy, Le Chéile 23, is underpinned by the values set out in the Civil Service Renewal Plan. A key action arising from this is our corporate strategy 'Ag Obair Le Chéile' which aims to develop our people, culture and organisation.
As part of Ag Obair le Chéile, my Department has developed an Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy and Action Plan that was launched in July. The strategy and action plan aims to promote an inclusive and diverse workplace recognising all protected characteristics. An LGBTQIA+ Network was established to provide a staff-led, safe space for LGBTQIA+ staff and allies in DECC to be their authentic selves, and advance visibility, acceptance and support for LGBTQIA+ staff and their needs in my Department and the Civil Service at large. Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion sponsor supports all Networks and Employee Resource Groups to bring suggestions on Strategic Action Plan implementation, policies, issues and initiatives through to EDI unit, SHRD, EDI Steering Group, EDI Leadership and Management Board. My Department's yearly participation in Pride month celebrations is a visible demonstration of its commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and in celebrating our LGBTQIA+ colleagues, families and friends.
The Civil Service has a range of robust policies that promotes respect, dignity, safety, and equality in the workplace and these policies provide the framework within which my Department operates. These central Civil Service policies are publicly available on the Department of Public Expenditure, NDP Delivery and Reform's website.
