Paudge Connolly (Cavan-Monaghan, Independent)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 176: To ask the Taoiseach the criteria for persons with disabilities for seeking employment opportunities within his Department; the application procedures that apply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37884/06]

Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

The Deputy will be aware that the Minister for Finance has responsibility in Government for policy in relation to the employment of people with disabilities in the civil service.

My Department and the Bodies under its aegis are committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all staff. In addition to complying with the provisions of the Disability Act 2005, we follow the guidelines set out in the Code of Practice for the Employment of People with Disabilities in the Civil Service. Recruitment to my Department is done through the Public Appointments Service. Promotion, training and all other benefits and opportunities are decided on the grounds of ability, qualifications and other relevant objective criteria.

The Department also actively participates in positive action programmes such as the Willing Able and Mentoring Programme under the aegis of the Department of Finance.

I would like to point out to the Deputy that my Department currently exceeds the 3% requirement relating to the employment of people with disabilities as recommended in the Disability Act 2005. The Department's offices are compatible with the needs of persons with disabilities.

The Deputy will know that the definition of a person with a disability under the Disability Act 2005 is as follows: "disability", in relation to a person, means a substantial restriction in the capacity of the person to carry on a profession, business or occupation in the State or to participate in social or cultural life in the State by reason of an enduring physical, sensory, mental health or intellectual impairment.