Secretary of State launches consultation on Equality Scheme
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Rt Hon Owen Paterson MP launched a consultation on the draft Equality Scheme and Action Plan, for the Northern Ireland Office.
The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Rt Hon Owen Paterson MP has today launched a consultation on the draft Equality Scheme and ActionPlan, for the Northern Ireland Office.
The document sets out how the department will deliver on its equality commitments over the next five years.
The Secretary of State said:
The Northern Ireland Office is fully committed to conducting all its work with the promotion of equality and good relations at its core.
The draft Equality Scheme sets out how the department will deliver policy and engage with organisations and individuals in a way that ensures equality of opportunity for all. This consultation is open to everyone who wants to comment on the draft scheme.
The department already has in place existing policiesto address equality and good relations. The draft Action Plan identifies how we can build on the good work already being developed.
The department is committed to ensuring that it meets its obligation on equality and good relations as set out in Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act.
The consultation on the draft Equality Scheme and Action Plan will run for 12 weeks from the 25 January until the 18 April.
Notes to editors:
1) The documents are available on the NIO website
2) Alternative formats of the documents are available upon request.
3) Response and queries on the consultation can be made in a number of ways.
In writing:
Head of Corporate Governance
Northern Ireland Office
11 Millbank
Lindon
SW1P 4PN
By email: equality.scheme@nio.x.gsi.gov.uk
By telephone: 0207 271 0811
By text phone: 0289 016 3426
4) All media enquiries should be directed to the NIO Press Office on 028 9052 7856. Out of office hours, please contact the duty press office via our enquiry form and your call will be returned.