Dr. Frances McGinnity:

On the Traveller training centre, I am not familiar with the particular example raised by the Deputy. It is a tricky balance between having targeted programmes for a particular group, as well as additional supports in a mainstream programme. This is clear with migrant integration. If there are segregated schools and living spaces, then that is a challenge in terms of social cohesion. The majority group can also learn from training that includes diverse groups. Non-Travellers in a group will also see that he or she is doing a training course which in turn educates and changes the perceptions of the majority group in the training group.

I agree with the point on SMEs. In the recovery from Covid, it will be small companies and low-skilled jobs that will be very important. These companies will not have that whole HR infrastructure or may not know the rules. Building on some of the points Ms McDonagh made, the ideas of support and information in terms of recruitment for these companies is important. Trying to get the message out so that they are aware is also important. They might not be recognising the difference or the skills. It is not necessarily that they do not want to employ somebody. That might be the case in some companies. Educating employers more generally, including small business employers, about the benefits of diversity and what is a fair and just recruitment process is important.