Margaret Murphy O'Mahony (Cork South West, Fianna Fail)
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246. To ask the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the way his Department is improving services and increasing supports for persons with disabilities during 2017. [34037/17]

Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael)
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Part 5 of the Disability Act 2005 sets out the legal obligations of public service bodies to include promoting and supporting the employment of people with disabilities and complying with any statutory Code of Practice.

The National Disability Authority (NDA) reports annually on compliance within each public service body with a target of  3% of employees with disabilities. In its latest published report for the calendar year 2015, the NDA noted that in the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, 5.1% of staff employed declared disabilities. 

Disability awareness is an integral part of the Induction programme for all new staff within my Department.  Our Health and Wellbeing Programme  focuses on promoting a proactive approach to staff health and well-being throughout the year. The programme aims to encourage staff to engage in at least one activity to help with physical or mental well-being and to ensure they have the ability to perform at their best. The programme encompasses a range of activities aimed at improving staff morale, reducing stress and embedding a positive attitude. The programme is focused on the key areas of positive mental health, disability awareness, nutritional advice, physical fitness, mindfulness, relaxation and resilience. 

Furthermore, all requirements which fall under the remit of my Department’s Disability Liaison Officer’s role are actively pursued.