Mr. John D. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made to correct the under-employment of Protestants by the Eastern Health and Social Services area board; whether this board has been investigated by the new Fair Employment Commission; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. HanleyThe Eastern health and social services board has an equal opportunities policy and has developed procedures for the implementation and monitoring of equality of opportunity, which are in line with the recommendations in the code of practice on fair employment. The board is committed to carry out any affirmative action necessary to address any apparent imbalance in its work force.
The board has not been investigated by the Fair Employment Commission, but, in line with other employers, consults the commission as and when necessary.