Carol Nolan (Laois-Offaly, Independent)
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102.To ask the Taoiseach and Minister for Defence to provide details of any anti-racism or unconscious bias training and presentations made available to staff in his Department during the period 2021 to date; the content of such training and presentations; the provider of any such training and presentations and the costs incurred for each event; if attendance at such training and presentations is mandatory or voluntary for staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24665/24]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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My Department remains committed to creating a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential. It is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment that supports the recruitment, retention, and advancement of all employees, and actively engage in efforts to develop a diverse and inclusive workforce.

The Learning & Development Unit of my Department is committed to providing courses and presentations which promote equality, diversity, inclusion and dignity in the workplace.

During the period 2021 to date, courses and presentations were provided by OneLearning, who are responsible for the provision of learning and development which supports the development of skills and competencies across the Civil Service.

Examples of content in the training provided, include:

‘Human Rights & Equality initiatives in the Civil Service and nationally’; ‘Managing biased behaviour’ and ‘Challenges to EDI and Human Rights – Discrimination and Dignity at Work’.

Attendance is voluntary and the course and presentations from OneLearning are commercially sensitive but relatively inexpensive in comparison to individually procured courses.

A full list of the courses can be provided to the deputy if required.