Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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620. To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the external consultancy organisation or provider which delivered diversity and inclusion training within her Department from 2018 to date; the costs associated with such services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14059/20]

Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael)
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I wish to inform the Deputy that my Department has not engaged any external consultancy organisation or provider to deliver diversity and inclusion training within the Department from 2018 to date.

My Department has established an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee and members of this Committee will participate in diversity and inclusion training during the year. Diversity and inclusion information is included as part of our monthly induction sessions with new starters to the Department.

My Department is currently working with autism support body As I Am, with a view to rolling out an online module on autism awareness to all staff. My Department is researching options for the delivery of disability awareness training that will fulfil our commitments under the National Disability Inclusion Strategy. Furthermore, an Access Officer has been appointed in accordance with Section 26(2) of the Disability Act.

The Access Officer is responsible for providing, arranging or co-ordinating assistance to persons with disabilities who wish to access the services provided by the Department of Justice and Equality. The Access Officer also acts as a point of contact for persons with disabilities who wish to access such services.

My Department’s LGBT+ Staff Network was established by staff to make the Department a more inclusive place for all through education and awareness raising. Since its foundation, it has run various initiatives, including on how to be a good ally in the workplace, the coming out process and how to support colleagues, and, most recently, to mark the start of Pride month.

My Department also provides guidance and briefings to our internal Interview boards on diversity and inclusion, unconscious bias awareness and applicable law in respect of non-discrimination.