My Department's Statement of Strategy for 2016- 2019 was presented to the Oireachtas last week and will be published shortly. It outlines my Department's core values which include a deep-rooted public service ethos of independence, integrity and impartiality and a strong commitment to diversity, gender equality and the fair and equal treatment of all.
As a Department which provides schemes and services to a broad range of customers across the country, I and my officials are mindful of our obligations as regards human rights and equality in the delivery of such schemes and services. We are also mindful of human rights and equality obligations when formulating and regulating policies relating to the functions of my Department.
Notwithstanding this awareness and having regard to the provisions of the Irish human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014, my Department's Management Board decided to set up a special Working Group, headed up at Principal Officer level, to initiate work on an initial assessment of human rights and equality impacts or dimensions relevant to the functions of my Department, including the services we provide, regulate and/or oversee.
In this context my Department is currently liaising closely with the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission on preparation for this assessment. Once the assessment is completed it is intended to develop an Action Plan to address any issues identified. In accordance with our public sector duty and as required under legislation, my Department will be reporting on progress of this work in its 2016 Annual Report.