Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 18 May 2023
416. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth if he will provide an update on his plans to address the prevalence and use of non-disclosure agreements in discrimination and sexual harassment disputes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23679/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe ongoing review of the Equality Acts is examining the use of non-disclosure agreements by employers in cases of sexual harassment and discrimination. The Review is also considering issues that were raised in the Private Member's Bill, the Employment Equality (Amendment) (Non-Disclosure Agreement) Bill 2021, along with the recommendations detailed in the report on the prevalence and use of non-disclosure agreements in discrimination and sexual harassment disputes, that was carried out by my Department.
The Department invited written submissions to a public consultation on the review of the equality legislation in 2021 and these submissions have been analysed by officials in my Department. A report outlining the findings of the public consultation will be published in the coming weeks.
Legislative proposals arising from the review of the Equality Acts will be brought forward later this year. The proposals advanced will be dependent on the issues raised in the consultation process as well as on further research.
