Annual Report 2000.pdf (size 2.3 MB) - Equality Authority

Analysis - Partnership as a basis for
development
At national level social partnership has evolved as a key dimension to
governance in Ireland. This reflects a widespread commitment to the
value of a broad participation in decision making. This participation is
most developed within the national agreements - the current agreement
being the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness. It is a participation
that embraces and engages in negotiation the interests of employers,
employees, farmers and those who experience poverty and inequality.
Key Objective 2
The development role pursued by the Equality Authority reflects this
commitment to partnership.This is expressed in our engagement with
the institutions of social partnership.We were pleased to be identified
within the Programme of Prosperity and Fairness in the implementation
of commitments made and in the commitment of the social partners to
take up the outcomes of the work of our two advisory committees. Our
participation in the work being done by the National Economic and
Social Forum was a valuable opportunity to debate and formulate new
strategies for equality. The opportunity to dialogue with the National
Economic and Social Council on data and proofing issues was a source of
learning. This engagement reflects the centrality of these institutions to
development in our society, as it reflects the major contribution they
have made to advancing a strategic framework for action on equality.
Our commitment to partnership is further evident in the fact that the
major development initiatives we have been involved in have been joint
ventures. During 2000 these initiatives have all been workplace focused.
They cover:
Work within the National Framework Committee and Family Friendly
Policies.
Organisation of an anti-racist workplace week.
Developing the National Framework Committee for Equal Opportunities
at the level of the Enterprise.
Joint ventures such as these allow key workplace actors to pursue
common objectives to maximum effect.
Partnership underpins a wider accountability from the Equality Authority
and reflects a broader ownership of the new institution. This is reflected
in the composition of our Board. It has been structured on a formal basis
Key Objective 3 - Annual Report 2000 - The Equality Authority page 53