Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 17 June 2021
314. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Defence the way in which his Department and agencies under his remit are working towards enabling access to employment for persons from minority and or disadvantaged communities, including, but not limited to, persons with disabilities, persons from ethnic minorities, Travellers, Mincéirí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32735/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department promotes a fair, tolerant and inclusive work place. It is fully committed to equality of opportunity and this is a fundamental value espoused in its People Strategy. Civil servants in my Department are recruited through the Public Appointments Service, which has diversity and inclusivity as a central element in its recruitment practices. Recruitment to my Department is therefore open to all applicants, and reasonable accommodation to support the employment of people with disabilities is afforded to those requesting it.
The officials in my Department are supported in working in a safe, inclusive environment through a Dignity at Work policy and through a range of learning and development opportunities, including unconscious bias training. There are also additional supports available through the Civil Service Employee Assistance Service and the Department Disability Liaison Officer. My Department has undertaken, where practicable, to promote and support the employment of people with disabilities.
Through its various policies and strategies, the Defence Forces take all reasonable steps to provide an inclusive workplace environment, free from harassment, intimidation and bullying and where dignity and respect are afforded to all. In addition, a Transgender Policy Working Group has been established and is currently progressing the development of a Transgender Employment Policy for the Defence Forces.
A Committee, led by the Department of Justice and Equality, has being established to oversee and monitor progress on the implementation of the LGBTI+ Inclusion Strategy 2019-2021. Nominees from my Department and from the Defence Forces have been appointed to this Committee. The first meeting was held on 16 June 2020, with representation from the Defence Organisation in attendance at all subsequent meetings.
