Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 25 Oct 1995

Vol. 457 No. 5

Written Answers. - Equality in the Workforce.

Michael Woods

Ceist:

23 Dr. Woods asked the Minister for Equality and Law Reform if he has satisfied himself with the representation of women in the higher level of his Department; whether any women candidates were considered for the recent appointment to a principal officer's post; and the effect the recent decision of the European Court of Justice, which ruled that positive discrimination in favour of women is contrary to EU Equality Directive 1976, will have on Irish law and practice. [15595/95]

Minister for Equality and Law Reform (Mr. Taylor)

The appointment to a principal officer position made recently in my Department involved the promotion of a serving officer. In this regard, selection for promotion in my Department is made on the basis of merit with due regard to seniority. The recent appointment, in the manner of its making, which included consideration of the respective merits of other officers, both men and women, was in conformity in all respects with this criteria. I am, of course, continually monitoring the gender balance in my Department within the framework of the general policies relating to appointments and promotions.

I have already dealt comprehensively with the decision of the European Court of Justice on positive discrimination in the course of my reply to earlier questions in the matter.