Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)
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Question 169: To ask the Minister for Finance the number of people with intellectual disabilities who are employed in the Civil Service; and if there are plans to recruit more under the 3% target. [12356/06]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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As Minister for Finance, I am responsible for Government policy on the employment of people with disabilities in the Civil Service. The Deputy may wish to note that, as part of a review of that policy, the Department of Finance commissioned independent research into the operation of the 3% employment target. A survey carried out as part of that research, which was published in 2002 as Employment and Career Progression of People with a Disability in the Irish Civil Service, showed that 7% of Civil Service staff have a disability, compared with the figure of between 2% and 3% that is generally reported in the annual surveys. The types of disability recorded in this survey included physical disability, which was the largest single category at 30%, and sensory disability relating to visual or hearing impairment, which was the second biggest category at 27%. Mental health, emotional, psychological, learning and other difficulties counted for 34% of the staff in that survey. The Department of Finance employs a disability advisory officer to advise on a review of the monitoring, reporting and recording arrangements for staff with disabilities in Departments and offices. As this is a sensitive area which gives rise to complex issues about confidentiality and the use of information, specific guidelines are being examined. A disability liaison officers' network, involving all Departments, has been established to share information. The possible use of a survey based on voluntary self-disclosure for new staff on appointment and for existing staff will be considered in discussion with the staff unions.

The Government gives a high priority to the employment of people with disabilities in the Civil Service. In light of the research and the consultants' recommendations on recruitment, it is envisaged that there will be targeted recruitment arrangements to maintain work opportunities for people with disabilities in the Civil Service. The Department of Finance is in discussions with the Public Appointments Service about the planning of a programme of recruitment. This year, every Department and a number of offices are supporting the willing able and mentoring project, whereby summer work placements will be offered to graduates with disabilities.