OFMDFM screening exercises 1 April 2007 to 30 September 2007
Screening exercises scheduled for the period 1 April 2007 to 30 September 2007
Implementation of Council Directive 2004/113/EC. The Directive is concerned with implementing the principle of equal treatment between men and women in the access to and supply of goods and services.
Evidence used in decision making
1. Evidence of higher or lower participation or uptake There is no indication of any higher or lower impact on different section 75 groups – neither on a ‘single identity’ basis nor on a multiple identity basis. Whilst there are examples of discrimination which are multi-identity (and addressed through the separate appropriate anti-discrimination legislation) there have been no indications identified of any of the existing equality grounds producing more instances of sex discrimination.
2. Evidence that different groups have different needs, experiences, issues and priorities There is no evidence that different section 75 groups have different needs in relation to the policy. Particular attention was paid to the impact on transsexual people and pregnant women and new mothers since protection was being extended or being made more explicit. This is likely, therefore, to have a positive impact.
3. Opportunity to better promote equality of opportunity or good relations There is less opportunity for altering policy when seeking to comply with EU law. The policy options chosen were felt to offer the best opportunity of better promoting equality of opportunity.
4. Do particular policies create problems for specific groups?
We have not identified any specific problems. Screening determined no identified negative impacts.
Screening outcomes
In conclusion, the policy proposals will have a positive equality impact for men and women generally. While many of the changes are technical, they will mean that men and women will have the same rights not to be discriminated against or harassed because of their gender when they are accessing goods or services as they do when they are at work. Clarification that it is unlawful to treat pregnant women or new mothers less favourably will also help some women. Many transsexual people will also benefit from the new protections.
As a result of the above conclusions, this policy has been screened out, in accordance with the Department’s Equality Scheme provisions.
Contact details:
Martina Campbell on 028 90520080
