Mr. Laurence Bond:

The Equality Authority operates at two levels. Under the legislation, we have a number of functions and a body of work continuously progresses under the radar. Occasionally high priority issues are brought forward in policy statements or campaigns. We are preparing for the merger and in the absence of a board since last summer, we have no immediate high priority campaigns. Nevertheless, there is ongoing case work under the legislation - promotional functions involve a wide range of activities such as research, development work with public bodies and civil society and providing information - which includes a significant programme of work funded by the European Social Fund on education, training and workplace equality and a range of activities in the education sector.