Frances Fitzgerald T.D., has welcomed the recent announcement of the General Scheme of the Gender Pay Gap Information Bill.
Deputy Fitzgerald welcomed the legislation, stating: “I have dedicated most of my adult life to tackling inequality, especially gender inequality. Prior to serving as a TD, I was Chair of the National Women’s Council of Ireland and, as well as my own experiences of being a working mother, I am keenly aware of the need to improve gender equality in the workplace.
“As Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation, I stated my intentions to deal with this issue and to have published audits of gender pay in businesses with over 50 people. Last August, I launched a survey along with my colleagues Minister Flanagan and Minister for State Stanton in the Department of Justice, to gauge the level of inequalities faced by women in the workplace, as well as to get a more accurate reflection of the gender pay gap in Ireland.
“The information collected as part of that initiative has fed into this new legislation. The Gender Pay Gap Information Bill when passed will compel employers with a certain number of employees to publish information on the gender pay gap in their firm. I hope that the publication of such data will influence individuals in their career choices and serve as a visible annual reminder to Government and business alike of the work needed to improve the working environment for women.
“Pay is just one area where gender inequalities remain. Other issues such as gender stereotypes, cultural attitudes, parental leave and childcare are more pervasive and require a multi-disciplinary approach. Actions in these areas are being pursued in the framework of the National Strategy for Women and Girls 2017-2020. More information can be found on www.genderequality.ie.”
