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For Written Answer on : 07/03/2023
Question Number(s): 454 Question Reference(s): 11585/23
Department: Social Protection
Asked by: David Stanton T.D.
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QUESTION


To ask the Minister for Social Protection if he will report on the effectiveness of the employer helpline established under the Comprehensive Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

REPLY


A national Employers Disability Information service is co-managed by Chambers Ireland, Ibec and ISME.  It was designed to provide employers with an expert source of advice and information on employing staff with disabilities. The service included a helpline for employers, run by employers, which would allow them to seek advice in this area and would ultimately lead to an improved working environment for people with disabilities.

This service was introduced in response to key action no. 6.14 of the Comprehensive Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities 2014 to 2016; namely to ‘Investigate establishment of an employer helpline’.

Responsibility for helpline rests with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

I trust this clarifies the position for the Deputy.