David Stanton (Cork East, Fine Gael)
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Question 281: To ask the Minister for Finance if, with regard to the 3% employment quota of people with disabilities of the Disability Act 2005, he is satisfied that this quota is being fulfilled in all areas of the Civil Service; the measures in place to ensure same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19638/06]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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As the Minister for Finance, I am responsible for the policy in relation to the employment of people with disabilities in the Civil Service. As part of a review of policy on the employment of people with a disability in the Civil Service, my Department commissioned independent research on the operation of the 3% employment target. A survey carried out as part of this research which was published as "Employment and Career Progression of people with a disability in the Irish Civil Service" (IPA 2002), shows that 7% of Civil Service staff have a disability. I can assure the Deputy that the Government gives a high priority to policy in this area. A number of significant initiatives have been taken recently.

The Department of Finance has recruited a Disability Advisory Officer to develop guidelines in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer for the monitoring, reporting and recording arrangements for staff with a disability in the Civil Service. My Department is working with the National Disability Authority to explore potential new approaches to supporting staff with disabilities, including the possible use of a survey based on voluntary self-disclosure, both for new staff on appointment and for existing staff. A Disability Liaison Officers network involving all Departments has also been set up to share information and advice.

It is also important that the Civil Service continues to offer employment opportunities to people with disabilities. In light of the research and the independent consultants' recommendations in relation to recruitment, discussions are taking place with the Public Appointments Service about putting in place a programme of targeted recruitment for the Civil Service. It is expected that the programme will begin in the autumn. In addition, I should also mention that, this summer, every Government Department and a number of Offices are supporting a project entitled WAM (Willing Able and Mentoring) whereby summer work experience placements will be offered to graduates with disabilities.