§ Mr. Altonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what action the Government have taken to encourage the provision or workplace nurseries in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. ViggersThe provision of workplace nurseries is a matter for individual employers.
Government policy in relation to its own employees is to undertake, in co-operation with trade unions, pilot surveys to assess demand for child-care facilities in particular locations; thereafter Departments are encouraged to view sympathetically any proposals that emerge and to consider co-operation with other employers.
A pilot survey has been completed in the Stormont estate complex and the findings have been considered by a joint management/union working party. The report of the working party is now being examined by the Department of Finance and Personnel.