Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 June 2025
577. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Social Protection the funding that is available for the provision of reasonable accommodations for individuals in the public sector workplace; if his Department has issued a list of pre-approved reasonable accommodations available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33984/25]
Amharc ar fhreagra578. Deputy Pádraig Rice asked the Minister for Social Protection his Department’s policy on the disability equality training available for staff in the Civil Service; if this training includes information on reasonable accommodations and neurodiversity; if those in managerial roles are required to attend additional training on this subject; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33986/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 577 and 578 together.
My Department has no role in relation to the provision of reasonable accommodations or disability equality training in the public sector workplace. That is a matter for the Department of Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation and/or individual public sector organisations.
My Department provides a range of employment supports for people with disabilities working in the private sector and the community and not-for-profit sector.
In July 2024, my Department launched a new scheme called Work and Access. This scheme offers seven supports to improve access in the workplace for people with a disability. Funding is available for communication supports, work equipment and workplace adaptations. Jobseekers, employees, self-employed people and employers may apply for supports both for the business premises and remote workplaces.
Through this scheme, non-public sector employers can access Disability Equality and Inclusion Training, to provide employers and organisations with access to training for staff, to gain a better awareness and understanding of disabilities in the workplace.
I trust that this clarifies the issue for the Deputy.
