Pat Rabbitte
Ceist:11 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform when it is intended to introduce a new Bill on employment equality which has been promised for many years; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Employment Equality Legislation.
I have identified as an immediate priority the introduction of new employment equality legislation. The existing proposals for legislation in the area are under examination in the light of the commitments in the Programme for a Partnership Government and the recommendations of the Second Commission on the Status of Women.
In particular, I am concerned to ensure that all options are fully examined for broadly based legislation that will prohibit discrimination, not only on the grounds of sex or marital status, but on a wider range of grounds. Already, I have commenced an extensive process of consultations and have invited interest groups concerned to submit to me their views in relation to the possible scope and content of such legislation by an early date.
I intend to bring forward new employment equality legislation as quickly as possible and I hope the proposals will be in Bill form before the end of this year.
I welcome the Minister's statement, particularly the time limit he has put on this. Will he take on board the various points made by the Commission on the Status of Women in this regard? At present the onus of proof rests solely on a complainant if there is a difficulty with an employer. Will he consider that aspect in the context of equality in employment? There are also the areas of education and training. Will sexual harassment are two aspects which included in the Bill?
The onus of proof and sexual harassment are two aspects which will be dealt with in the Bill. The question of training comes within the ambit of the Minister for Enterprise and Employment. I will consult with him and I suggest that the Deputy pursue the matter independently.