Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)

As I outlined in response to Question No. 2 of 18 December 2008 which was also tabled by Deputy Rabbitte, the Government is committed to the principle of equality and the elimination of discrimination. This has been enunciated in the many equality Bills passed by the Oireachtas. I reiterate that I am committed to ensuring the Equality Authority has a secure and viable future. I am glad that the chairperson of the authority, Dr. Angela Kerins, recently corrected media reports suggesting the authority had closed. She has confirmed that it remains open for business at both its offices, in Birchgrove House, Roscrea, and Clonmel Street, Dublin. According to Dr. Kerins, the board and staff of the authority are more determined than ever to drive the equality agenda forward. They will do so in partnership with individuals and organisations committed to equality in society.

I indicated in response to Question No. 699 of 27 January last that I had filled two vacancies that had arisen on the board of the Equality Authority, following the making of nominations by the Irish Business and Employers Confederation. Arrangements are in place to fill the remaining four vacancies. Twelve people are serving on the board of the authority. The board, as empowered by the Employment Equality Act, appointed a member of staff as acting chief executive on 17 December 2008. I accept that 2009 will be a difficult year for all public bodies, including agencies in the justice area. Like many other public sector bodies, the Equality Authority has been given more modest resources this year with which to achieve its goals but it has taken up this challenge. I understand it has agreed its strategic plan for the period between 2009 and 2011. It will be launched and published within the next week or so. I commend and support the determination of the board and staff of the authority to fulfil its complex mandate.

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