Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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535. To ask the Minister for Health the actions that his Department and bodies under the aegis of his Department are taking to increase recruitment of members of the LGBTQIA+ communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38411/22]

Stephen Donnelly (Wicklow, Fianna Fail)
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Recruitment for the Department of Health is carried out by the Public Appointments Service (PAS).

The PAS Nua strategy (2020 – 2023) identifies areas for action and through this strategy commits to increasing greater knowledge and understanding of diversity in the recruitment market and the Irish public sector. Recruitment and selection processes will encourage and enable access to candidates from diverse backgrounds.

Once appointed to the Department of Health, employees are welcomed into a workplace that fosters diversity and inclusiveness from all communities. As a Government body, we have a responsibility under Section 42 of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act, 2014 to eliminate discrimination; provide equality of opportunity and treatment for employees and persons to whom we provides services; and protect the human rights of employees and service users. Our Public Service 2020, the framework for development and innovation in Ireland’s public service, includes the promotion of equality, diversity, and inclusion as one of its headline actions under the pillar of Developing our People and Organisations.

In addition to legislative and strategic obligations, we are building a culture of awareness and respect to enable and develop our diverse workforce that feels comfortable and allowing the communication of varying points of view. Colleagues from all communities are encouraged to contribute their voice to a workplace environment conducive to the emergence of a larger pool of creativity, innovation, skills, and experiences.

I have asked the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy in relation to their workforce. Information for other agencies under the aegis of my Department is being collated and will be provided directly to the Deputy once available.