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NORTHERN IRELAND LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICERS’ SUPERANNUATION COMMITTEE

 

 

EQUALITY SCHEME

 

 

April 2001

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


CONTENTS

 

 

Foreword

 

Introduction

 

Organisational Structure

 

NILGOSC Role and Policies

 

Consultation

 

Assessing Compliance with s75 duties

 

Impact of Policies

 

Screening of Policies

 

Impact Assessement Timetable

 

Equality Impact Assessments

 

Monitoring

 

Publication of Assessments

 

Training and Communication

 

Public Access to Services

 

Publication of the Scheme

 

Promotion of Good Relations

 

Action Plan and Timetable

 

Appendices

 

List of Bodies Consulted

 

 

Impact Assessment Methodology

 

Scheme Consultation

 

 

 


FOREWORD

 

 

 

Since 1950 NILGOSC has been administering the pension scheme for local government employers and admitted bodies in Northern Ireland. The quality of this service is of the highest importance to the NILGOS Committee.

 

NILGOSC is fully committed to equality of opportunity which is an important element of the quality service we offer. This commitment includes our intention to fully comply with the statutory obligations set out in Section 75 and Schedule 9 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.

 

NILGOSC continues to ensure that equality issues are part of our normal business procedures. This Equality Scheme sets out how we intend to fulfil new duties required of public authorities to promote both equality of opportunity and good relations.

 

The NILGOS Committee will make all necessary resources available to implement the Equality Scheme and will ensure that the results of its operation will be reflected in our corporate plan. The Committee will also monitor compliance with the Scheme on an annual basis and review the Scheme at the end of its first cycle.

 

 

 

 

John Galbraith

Chairman

April 2001

 

 

 

 

 

Deane Morrice

Secretary

April 2001

 

 

 

 

 

1.         Introduction

 

1.1       Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 ("the Act") requires NILGOSC, in carrying out its functions, to have due regard to the need to promote equality of opportunity:

 

            -           between persons of different religious belief, political opinion, racial group, age, marital status or sexual orientation;

 

            -           between men and women generally;

 

            -           between persons with a disability and persons without;

                        and

 

            -           between persons with dependants and persons without.

 

1.2       In addition, without prejudice to its obligations above, NILGOSC shall, in carrying out its functions, have regard to the desirability of promoting good relations between persons of different religious belief, political opinion or racial group.

 

1.3       NILGOSC is committed to the fulfilment of its Section 75 obligations in all parts of its organisation. All necessary resources (in terms of finance, staff and time) will be allocated to ensure that the statutory duties are complied with and that the Equality Scheme is compiled and implemented effectively and on time.

 

1.4       This equality scheme sets out how NILGOSC proposes to fulfil the duties imposed by Section 75 and Schedule 9 of the Act and relates to all of its functions, powers and duties. NILGOSC will ensure that there are effective internal arrangements in place to ensure that the duties are effectively complied with and for monitoring and reviewing progress. This includes an action plan of which communication and training are key elements.

 

 

 

 

 

2.         Organisational Structure

 

2.1       The Northern Ireland Local Government Officers' Superannuation scheme is managed by a Committee consisting of 10 members and a Chairperson appointed by the Department of the Environment.  The Committee meets 11 times per year and its authority to manage the scheme is set out in the Local Government Pension Scheme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000.

 

2.2       The Secretary, as Accounting Officer and de facto Chief Executive, is responsible for the operational management of the organisation and for providing strategic advice to the Committee.  The Secretary is not a member of the Committee.

 

2.3       NILGOSC has three departments, led by a senior manager reporting to the Deputy Secretary.  These departments are Pensions Administration, Pensioner Payroll and Finance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


2.4       Equality Scheme Responsibilities

 

2.5       NILGOSC is committed to the fulfilment of its Section 75 obligations for all of its functions, powers and duties.  Statutory responsibility rests with the Committee.  Operational responsibility lies with the Secretary and he is responsible for the implementation of administrative arrangements to ensure that the Section 75 duties are complied with.  All necessary resources will be made available to meet the Section 75 obligations.

 

2.6       NILGOSC has specific administrative arrangements for the operation of the scheme. 

 

1.   Equality issues within NILGOSC will be co-ordinated by David Murphy, the Deputy Secretary, who is the first point of contact for the Equality Commission, anyone requiring information regarding the Equality Scheme or making a complaint about the operation of the Scheme.

 

Contact Details

Post:      NILGOSC, Templeton House, 411 Holywood Road, Belfast, BT4 2LP.

Phone:   (028) 90768025

Fax:        (028) 90768790

Email:     david.murphy@nilgosc.org.uk

 

2.   The NILGOS Committee will monitor annually the actions taken under the Scheme and will review the progress of the implementation of the Scheme at the end of its first cycle.

 

3.   The Secretary, as Chief Executive, is responsible to the Committee for operating the Scheme The Secretary will chair the Senior Management Team which will consider each of the policies exposed to screening and oversee the impact assessment exercises. This Team will also  produce the annual report to the Committee and the Equality Commission. The Senior Management Team meets monthly.

 

4.   The Principles and Action Plans outlined in this Scheme will be reflected in the NILGOSC Corporate Plan. This plan is reviewed annually by the NILGOS Committee which assesses performance and sets objectives for the forthcoming rolling 3 year period.

 

5.   The implementation of the Corporate Plan is monitored and managed by the Senior Management Team which reviews progress on a quarterly basis as a standing item. Progress made on Equality issues, including those elements outlined in the Corporate Plan, will form part of the annual report to the Equality Commission described at paragraph 5.2.

 

2.7       Complaints Procedure

 

2.8       The Committee has an official complaints procedure which applies to matters relating to the Equality Scheme as well as pension matters.  NILGOSC will ensure that the complaints procedure is accessible to all by exposing it to an impact assessment as part of the administration of the pension scheme.

 

2.9       Any individual with a complaint should contact the person with whom they have been dealing or his or her Team Manager. This can be done in writing, by telephone or by personal visit (no appointment necessary).  If the matter is not resolved the complaint may be made to the Deputy Secretary. However a complaint about the Equality Scheme should be made directly to David Murphy, the Deputy Secretary.

 

2.10    If the complaint is still not resolved, an individual can make a formal complaint, in writing, to the Secretary.  The complaint will be answered within five working days.  Where this is not possible an acknowledgement will be issued within five working days to advise of when a reply will be sent.

 

2.11    The Committee can then be asked to reconsider the matter.  The individual must apply, in writing, within 6 months of receipt of the previous decision, giving the reasons for the dissatisfaction.  The Committee will reconsider the complaint and inform the individual, in writing, within 2 months, of its decision.

 

2.12    If an individual wishes to make a complaint arising because they are a member of one of the nine s75 categories, but does not wish to be identified, a complaint can be made on their behalf by a representative.

 

 

 

Summary of Complaints Procedure

 

Stage 1

Make complaint to person you were dealing with or his/her Team Leader

 

Stage 2

Make complaint to Deputy Secretary. Complaints regarding the Equality Scheme can be made directly to the Deputy Secretary

 

Stage 3

Make formal written complaint to Secretary

 

Stage 4

Make formal written complaint to the Committee

 

Contact Details

NILGOSC

411 Holywood Road, Belfast BT4 2LP

Tel. (028) 90768025  Fax (028) 90768790

 

 

 

 

3.         NILGOSC - Its Role, Functions and Policies

 

3.1       NILGOSC performs 2 principal roles:

 

              *         The administration of the Local Government pension scheme in compliance with the Local Government Pension Scheme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000.

 

              *         To manage and maintain a fund out of which the benefits of the scheme are met. 

 

3.2       In performance of the above roles NILGOSC carries out functions in the following areas:

 

              *         The admittance of eligible employing organisations to the Scheme

 

              *         Collection and investment of income

 

              *         Calculation and payment of Scheme benefits

 

              *         Assessment of eligibility for Scheme benefits under the regulations

 

*         Provision of information to all stakeholders.

 

3.3       To support and implement the above functions and provision of services NILGOSC has discretion within a number of policy areas:

 

              *         Administration of the Local Government pension scheme within the framework set out in the legislation. A major element of this policy is the method of communication with our stakeholders.

 

              *         Investment of net income

 

              *         Matters relating to employment

 

              *         Matters relating to the procurement of goods and services.

 

These four areas, which represent the entirety of the service provided by NILGOSC, will be exposed to an impact assessment.

 

            The Committee has no discretion over the terms of the pension scheme as set out in the regulations.  The Department of the Environment is responsible for the Local Government pension scheme regulations. The Department of the Environment will cover in its Scheme the arrangements for equality impact assessments of the pension scheme regulations. NILGOSC will provide such information which may be required by the Department in carrying out those equality impact assessments and will co-operate with the Department in equality matters.

 

 

 

 

4.         Consultation

 

4.1      Consultation with the Equality Commission, our stakeholders and all those directly affected by our policies whether or not they have a direct economic or personal interest is an important element of our Equality Scheme. Our stakeholders are considered to be our members, pensioners, deferred pensioners, employing authorities, staff, suppliers and the Department of the Environment.

 

4.2      Consultation will be undertaken at the following stages:-

 

1.      · Drafting of Equality Scheme and mechanisms to satisfy s75 obligations

 

2.      · Screening of policies

 

3.      · Impact assessment

 

4.3      NILGOSC will consult with those listed in Appendix 1 on all matters relating to the duties imposed by Section 75 of the Act. This includes the formulation and revision of this Equality Scheme, the assessment of the impact of policies, and the screening of the elements within policies.

 

4.4      Whatever methods are used, NILGOSC will ensure that the consultation is meaningful. That includes the arranging of consultation which is open, timely and inclusive. Consultation will commence as early as possible with consideration given to the best method as shown below.

 

4.5      NILGOSC will consult on screening and equality impact assessments with its members, pensioners, employing authorities, trade unions, relevant public sector and affected groups as necessary including those shown at Appendix 1  and all those directly affected by our policies whether or not they have a direct economic or personal interest.

 

4.6      In addition to consultation on equality impact assessments, NILGOSC will also, from time to time, have a need to consult on strategies, reviews and other plans.  The bodies listed at Appendix 1 will be included in relevant consultations of these kinds.

 

4.7      In consulting affected groups, NILGOSC will aim to provide a period of response of at least 8 weeks.  However there may be circumstances when this timescale is not feasible, for example, in order to ensure continuity of the provision of services in an emergency. Such circumstances will be monitored, reviewed, justified and reported upon in the equality annual report.

 

4.8      In consulting on any matter to which this scheme relates, NILGOSC will use any of the following methods:-

 

o       · letter

 

o       · meetings with the public, in groups or as individuals

 

o       · attitude surveys of service users and potential service users

 

o       · consultative panels

 

o       · press releases/Public notices

 

o       · internet

 

o         direct invitation to groups

 

4.9      NILGOSC will work with representative groups and individuals in order to identify how best to obtain their views. This may involve face to face meetings, advisory groups, surveys, consultative panels, internet discussions and other innovative ways of consulting as there will be different ways of consulting for different groups and it will be important to establish the basis for dialogue and engagement during the life of the Scheme.

 

4.10    NILGOSC considers it particularly important that sufficient, timely and appropriate information is provided to enable all affected groups and individuals to consider the full implications of proposals and it will take steps to ensure this. This will include any qualitative, quantitative and other documentation including consultants reports.

 

4.11    Information will be available, on request and in consultation with the affected groups, in alternative formats (such as minority languages and audio cassette) to ensure there are no barriers to consultation and that any person requesting an alternative format has the same opportunity as the other consultees. A system will be put in place to ensure that the alternative formats are available on a timely basis. NILGOSC will consider how best to communicate information to young people and those with learning disabilities by consulting with representative groups.

 

4.12    If meetings are used as a method of consultation, consideration will be given to facilitating the meeting to ensure full participation including; location of meeting, time and length of the meeting, accessibility and the provision of support facilities such as childcare, translation and signing.

 

4.13    NILGOSC recognises that members of some of the specific Section 75 categories may not wish to be publicly identified as being of that category and will take this into account when determining best methods of consultation.

 

 

 

 

5.         Arrangements for Assessing Compliance with Section 75 Duties

 

5.1       NILGOSC will assess over a 5 year period how each of its policies and the policy areas can contribute to the promotion of equality of opportunity and the promotion of good relations within the terms of Section 75 of the Act.  This will be done through equality impact assessments and the timetable at paragraph 8.1 will be followed. Each equality impact assessment for functions or policies will include a section on the promotion of good relations.  The organisations indicated at Appendix 1 in relation to each policy will be consulted on these equality impact assessments.  The Community Relations Council will also be consulted specifically in relation to the section in each policy statement which deals with good relations.

 

5.2       NILGOSC will also prepare an annual review of the progress made in implementing the Scheme and the steps which it has taken during the year to promote equality of opportunity and Good Relations.  This will be sent to the Equality Commission to assist it in compiling the Commission's Annual Report. The statement will also be published in the Committee’s annual financial statements.

 

5.3      NILGOSC will liaise with a view to ensuring such progress is maintained with the Equality Commission and the Community Relations Council.   It will respond constructively to proposals from those bodies relating to its compliance with the Section 75 obligations. 

 

5.4       NILGOSC will monitor complaints that it has not fulfilled its statutory obligations.  It is committed to give a substantive response to complaints within one month although, as per the Complaints Procedure at paragraph 2.7, in most circumstances a response will be provided within five days.  When a complainant claims to have been directly affected by a failure of NILGOSC to comply with this scheme, he/she will be informed of the procedure for bringing such a complaint to the Equality Commission.

 

5.5      NILGOSC will review this scheme within five years of its submission to the Equality Commission.  This review will include an assessment of how NILGOSC has complied with its Section 75 obligations and how equality of opportunity and good relations have been advanced in relation to the policy areas.  NILGOSC will consult with those bodies listed at Appendix 1 before submission of the review to the Equality Commission. The outcome of the review will be made public.

 

 

 

 

6.         Assessing the Impact of Policies on the Promotion of Equality of Opportunity

 

6.1      In fulfilling its statutory obligations, NILGOSC will expose each of its four policies to an impact assessment These four policies are:-.

 

§         ·Administration of the Local Government Pension Scheme and Compensation for Premature Retirement, including communication.

§         ·Investment of Contributions

§         ·Matters relating to the procurement of goods and services

§         · Matters relating to employment

 

6.2      The terms ‘policy’, ‘policy area’ and ‘functions’ are used loosely to describe all that NILGOSC does (encompassing strategies, protocols, procedures, guidelines, codes of practice across the organisation including service delivery, employment and procurement).

 

 

 

 

7.         Screening of Policies

 

7.1      ‘Screening’ is term used by Equality professionals to mean the initial review of policy using consultation and supporting data to determine if there is a likelihood that there is a higher or lower participation by a particular group.

 

7.2      The functions performed by NILGOSC are limited in scope compared to many public sector organisations. Therefore, at this stage, NILGOSC intends to expose all functions to an impact assessment process involving consultation. No policy has been ‘screened-out’ of the equality impact assessment exercise.

7.3      Any new policy will be exposed to a screening process. At this stage no new policies are anticipated. However if a new policy was adopted the screening process would determine:-

 

§         Is there any evidence, or other reason to believe, that there is higher or lower participation or uptake by different groups?

 

§         Is there any evidence that different groups have different needs, experiences, issues and priorities in relation to the particular policy issue?

 

§         Is there an opportunity to better promote equality of opportunity or better community relations by altering the policy or working with others in government or the wider Community?

 

§         Have consultations with relevant groups, organisations or individuals indicated that particular policies create problems which are specific to them?

 

7.4      In order to assess which new policies have the potential to affect equality of opportunity, NILGOSC will consult with those listed in Appendix 1 to determine if any of the nine Section 75 categories are disproportionately affected. Consultation will be by the means outlined in section 4.

 

7.4      A report on the screening process will be included in the report on the impact assessments which follow. This report will show those new policies which were subject to impact assessment and also note those policies which were screened but not exposed to an impact assessment. The results of the screening process and impact assessment procedure and findings will be reported to the Equality Commission as part of the annual reporting mechanism.

 

 

 

 

8.         Timetable of Impact Assessment

 

8.1       NILGOSC will submit all policies for impact assessment:-

 

            2001/2002

            Administration of the Local Government Pension Scheme and Compensation for Premature Retirement, including communication.

 

            2002/2003

            Investment of Contributions

            Matters relating to the procurement of goods and services

 

            2003/2004

            Matters relating to employment

 

8.2      The above areas for assessment represent the entirety of the service provided by NILGOSC and therefore no up front screening of policies is required. The areas have been prioritised on the basis of the importance and significance in providing the service to our stakeholders and the date that these policies were last reviewed. Consultation on the prioritisation was undertaken as part of the consultation on the draft Scheme.

 

 

 

 

9.         Equality Impact Assessments

 

9.1      NILGOSC intends to carry out equality impact assessments to seek to identify, within each relevant Section 75 category, the impact of policies adopted, or proposed to be adopted, on the promotion of equality of opportunity.

 

9.2      NILGOSC will undertake impact assessments in line with Annex 1 of the Equality Commission’s guidelines (shown in summary at Appendix 2) Consultation will be as set out in section 4.

 

9.3      In making any decision to a policy adopted or proposed to be adopted, NILGOSC will take into account any Equality Impact Assessment and consultation carried out in relation to that policy.

 

 

 

 

10.       Monitoring

 

10.1    Knowledge of the uptake of services provided by NILGOSC and the impact of its policies on the different groups within the Section 75 categories will be of assistance in assessing progress towards equality of opportunity.  Within one year of approval of this scheme, NILGOSC will assess the extent of existing monitoring and the scope for extending it.  In addition to the value of any further information required for assessing progress towards equality of opportunity, this review will take into account the following factors:

 

              *         resource implications

 

              *         readiness of the public to supply information

 

              *         availability of proxy measures (eg postcode analysis)

 

10.2    The purpose of the review will be to ensure that a mechanism is in place to monitor the impact of each policy on the relevant groups. The mechanism will be reviewed on an annual basis and reported as part of the annual statement on the progress of the implementation of the Scheme.

 

10.3    In the first year of the Scheme NILGOSC will seek to set up a representative panel of Members and Pensioners. Within the overall panel we hope, through the co-operation of the panel members, to identify focus groups to represent the 9 categories detailed in the Act. This panel will be used to assess the impact of policies designed to achieve equality of opportunity on each group together with consultation as described in section 4.

 

10.4    In some cases an equality impact assessment or the monitoring described above may identify a differential adverse impact on particular groups within the Section 75 categories.  In such cases the policy will be revised.. If no alternative policy is feasible, steps will be taken, wherever possible, to mitigate such anticipated adverse impact.  NILGOSC may, in these circumstances, commission special monitoring to confirm the extent of the adverse impact and/or the success of any mitigating measures.  Information collected in this special monitoring would be taken into account in any future review of the policy.

 

 

 

 

11.       Publication of Assessments

 

11.1    NILGOSC will publish by the most appropriate method to those listed in Appendix I and any other organisation representing some or all of the stakeholders, the outcome of any equality impact assessment and of any monitoring undertaken in relation to Section 10 above.  The appropriate method of publication will be determined following consultation with the affected groups. NILGOSC will consider how best to communicate information to young people and those with learning disabilities by consulting with representative groups.

 

11.2    This material will also be available in printed form by contacting NILGOSC at Templeton House, 411 Holywood Road, Belfast, BT4 2LP, telephone number 028 90768025. Alternative formats will be available on request.  NILGOSC may inform the general public about the availability of this material through press releases.  It will also inform bodies listed at Appendix 1 when this material is available.

 

11.3    The results of impact assessments will be posted on the NILGOSC website which is http://www.nilgosc.org.uk/equality.htm.

 

 

11.4    The report on the impact assessment will include:-

 

·        The aim of the policy being assessed

·        Details of consideration given to measures to mitigate any adverse impact

·        Details of consideration given to alternative policies which might better achieve equality of opportunity

 

 

 

 

12.       Training and Communication

 

12.1          NILGOSC is a small organisation employing 28 (Full Time Equivalent) fully trained specialist staff. NILGOSC is committed to the on-going training of the workforce and has in place a mechanism for identifying training needs and planning training over the medium term. Training required as part of the Section 75 duties will be reflected in the organisation’s training plan and will be fully resourced.

 

12.2    NILGOSC will ensure that all staff receive training on the Section 75 obligations, the requirements of this equality scheme and the arrangements for equality impact assessment, appropriate to their grade and responsibilities. This training will be developed over the five years and will reflect issues raised during impact assessments.

 

12.3    NILGOSC will ensure that the staff carrying out the implementation of the Scheme and Section 75 duties, complaint handling, consultation, screening, impact assessments and monitoring, who are already trained, receive update training and any further training recommended as a result of consultation with the groups.

 

12.4    NILGOSC will provide copies of this scheme to all staff.

 

12.5    All staff will be required to attend a conference provided by senior staff, Equality professionals and representatives of the 9 groups in order to make them familiar with the Equality Scheme and how it will impact upon the service which NILGOSC provides. This training will also encompass requirements of the Human Rights Act. This conference will take place in 2001. New staff joining NILGOSC after this date receive Equality awareness training as part of the routine induction process. All training will be evaluated and further awareness training will be delivered over the five year period following consultation with the groups.

 

12.6    Specifically, NILGOSC will make use of the training services provided by Disability Action and the Northern Ireland Council for Ethnic Minorities in order to make staff aware of the needs of the groups these umbrella organisations represent.

 

12.7    Supervisory staff will receive more detailed training as regard the Equality Scheme by way of a workshop, both as to how if affects staff and the operations of NILGOSC. This training will be provided by the officer responsible for the Equality Scheme. This workshop will take place in 2001.

 

12.8    The Chairman and Secretary of NILGOSC have demonstrated their commitment to the statutory duties by signing-off the Scheme and making a personal statement contained in the foreword. In addition to the distribution of the Equality Scheme, this personal commitment will be publicised by way of the public notices placed regarding the scheme and in Scheme covering letters.

 

 

 

 

13.       Public Access to Information and Services

 

13.1    NILGOSC is committed to effective communication with its stakeholders.  It recognises, however, that there is a risk that some stakeholders will not enjoy equality of opportunity in accessing information provided by NILGOSC.

 

            There are three particular risk areas:

 

§         people with sensory and learning disabilities may have particular difficulties with information in print;

 

§         members of ethnic minority groups, whose first language is not English, may have difficulties with information provided only in English;

 

§         some local newspapers are read predominantly by members of only one community.

 

13.2    In disseminating information through the local press, NILGOSC will ensure that press statements and public advertisements are accessible to both main communities.

 

13.3    NILGOSC will, within the first year following commencement of this scheme, undertake an impact assessment of its arrangements for providing information in non-written English formats.  The assessment will take account of the likely demand for information in other formats across its direct services and key policies and the resource implications.

 

13.4    NILGOSC intends that all of its services are fully accessible to all parts of the community.  Equality impact assessments will highlight any factors which indirectly discriminate by making a particular service less accessible to particular groups.

 

 

 

 

14.       Publication of the Scheme

 

14.1    Following submission to the Equality Commission, this scheme will be available on request from the NILGOSC office at Templeton House, 411 Holywood Road, Belfast, BT4 2LP.

 

14.2    Following approval of the scheme by the Equality Commission, NILGOSC will issue a press statement and place a notice in the press as to how to obtain a copy of the scheme.

 

When the local press is utilised, copy will be submitted to the Belfast Telegraph, Irish News and the News Letter. In consultation with the Northern Ireland Council for Ethnic Minorities and the Coalition on Sexual Orientation the local ethnic and gay press respectively will be used if appropriate.

 

14.3    A copy of the full scheme will be sent to all initial consultees as well as those who will be consulted in future as detailed in Appendix I.

14.4    A summary of the Scheme will also be prepared. Its availability will be publicised in the annual Member’s Report and Pensioners News. The Summary will be available from the address above. As stated in 14.2 a copy of the full scheme will also be available.

14.5    A copy of the full scheme will be posted on the NILGOSC website which is http://www.nilgosc.org.uk/equality.htm

14.6    Alternative versions of the Scheme are  available on request. As with consultation NILGOSC will consider how best to communicate information to young people and those with learning disabilities.

 

 

 

 

15.       Promotion of Good Relations

 

15.1    NILGOSC is committed to promote good relations as required by the Act between persons of different religious beliefs, political opinions or racial groups. In order to demonstrate this commitment NILGOSC will:-

 

§         Prepare a Good Relations policy for staff and stakeholders

§         Publish the policy to stakeholders (including staff)

 

Key to the policy will be the following elements:-

 

§         Statement of principle and support of senior management

§         Separate arrangements for staff and other stakeholders

§         Commitment to promotion of equality by methods which ensure positive effects on Good Relations

§         Opportunities for staff to discuss culturally diverse issues

 

As part of the policy drafting a staff survey will be undertaken to identify additional issues which the policy may need to address. In the meantime NILGOSC will continue to ‘mainstream’ Good Relations issues by reinforcing and reflecting the diverse society in Northern Ireland. The various actions described above are reflected in the action plan below.

 

 

 

 

16.       Action Plan and Timetable

 

16.1    The following timetable summarises the measures which NILGOSC proposes to take during five years following the commencement of the scheme and the period of the Scheme’s preparation:

 

 

            Preparation Period to July 2000

 

April 2000        Draft scheme approved by NILGOSC Committee

 

May 2000         Consult with list of stakeholders comprising all employing authorities, Equality Commission and CRC, representatives of 9 section 75 categories including staff.

 

July 2000          Amend scheme and seek NILGOSC Committee approval.

Submit scheme to Commissioners.

 

 

            Year 1                        July 2000 - June 2001

 

Set up representative member and pensioner consultation panels.

 

Undertaking of a staff survey on Good Relations

Preparation of a Good Relations policy for staff and stakeholders

Publishing the Good Relations Policy.

 

Review by Committee of action taken during year to promote equality of opportunity.

 

Preparation of an annual statement on the steps taken to promote equality of opportunity and progress of implementation of the Scheme which will be sent to the Equality Commission and publicised with our financial statements.

 

Awareness training of staff as regards the Equality Scheme, the Human Rights Act and Good Relations

 

Publicising the scheme including circulation of Scheme to all original consultees.

 

Review of the mechanism for monitoring the participation of each group in the services provided under the four policies and the publication of the findings in the annual statement.

 

 

 

            Year 2                        July 2001 - June 2002

 

Impact assessment of the administration of the Local Government Pension Scheme and the Premature Retirement Scheme.

 

Review by Committee of action taken during year to promote equality of opportunity.

 

Preparation of an annual statement on the steps taken to promote equality of opportunity and progress of implementation of the Scheme which will be sent to the Equality Commission and publicised with our financial statements.

 

Review of the extent of existing monitoring arrangements.

 

Assessment of the methods of providing information to stakeholders.

 

 

            Year 3                        July 2002 - June 2003

 

Impact assessment of the policies for the investment of contributions and the procurement of goods and services.

 

Review by Committee of action taken during year to promote equality of opportunity.

 

Review of the extent of existing monitoring arrangements.

 

Preparation of an annual statement on the steps taken to promote equality of opportunity and progress of implementation of the Scheme which will be sent to the Equality Commission and publicised with our financial statements.

 

 

            Year 4                        July 2003 - June 2004

 

Impact assessment of employee policies.

 

Review by Committee of action taken during year to promote equality of opportunity.

 

Review of the extent of existing monitoring arrangements.

 

Preparation of an annual statement on the steps taken to promote equality of opportunity and progress of implementation of the Scheme which will be sent to the Equality Commission and publicised with our financial statements.

 

 

            Year 5                        July 2004 - June 2005

 

Impact assessment of new policies.

 

Review by Committee of action taken during year to promote equality of opportunity.

 

Review of the Scheme which will be submitted to the Equality Commission and publicised to our stakeholders.

 

Review of the extent of existing monitoring arrangements.

 

Review of the Good Relations Policy.

 

Preparation of an annual statement on the steps taken to promote equality of opportunity and progress of implementation of the Scheme which will be sent to the Equality Commission and publicised with our financial statements.

 

 

 

 


Appendix 1

 

List of Bodies to be Consulted

                                                                          

 

NILGOSC has compiled the following list of consultees for all matters with a special emphasis on those who are affected by the pension scheme policies.

 

This list was subject to consultation in 2000 and amended as a result.

 

We will consult directly with Members and Pensioners by way of a Members Panel and a Pensioners Panel. These panels will consist of a representative sample of Members and Pensioners. We expect this form of consultation to be the most effective in ensuring that all members, including those categorised by Schedule 9 of the Act, have equality of opportunity for pension scheme matters.

 

The list below is not exhaustive and may be amended in the light of experience.

 

List of Organisations/Groups to Consult

 

Equality Commission

Community Relations Council

Irish Congress of Trade Unions (NI Committee)

ChildCare NI

Help the Aged

Disability Action

NIPSA

Staff

Members of the Scheme and Pensioners

NI Council for Ethnic Minorities

Coalition on Sexual Orientation

Royal National Institute for Deaf People

Agricultural Research Inst of NI

Antrim BC

Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School

Ards BC

Ards Citizens' Advice Bureau

Armagh City & D C

Armagh College of FE

Armagh Observatory

Arts Council of NI

Association of Local Authorities

Ballymena Academy

Ballymena BC

Ballymoney BC

Ballynafeigh H A Ltd

Banbridge DC

Bangor Grammar School

Baptist HA Ltd

Belfast Education and Library Board

Belfast CC

Belfast Charitable Society

Belfast Community H A

Belfast High School

Belfast Instit of FE

Belfast Print Workshop

Belfast Royal Academy

Belfast Visitor & Convention Bureau

BIH HA Ltd

Bloomfield Collegiate School

Braidside Integrated Primary And Nursery School

Bridge Integrated Ps

Campbell College

Carrickfergus BC

Castlereagh BC

Castlereagh College of FE

Causeway Instit of FE

Cedar Integ. P.S.

Choice HA Limited

Christian Brothers Grammar School – Omagh

Citybus Ltd

Clothing And Industrial Training Services

Coleraine Academical Institution

Coleraine BC

Coleraine Harbour Commissioners

Connswater Housing Association

Construction Industry Training Board

Convent Grammar School Enniskillen

Convent Grammar School Strabane

Cookstown DC

Council For Catholic Maintained Schools

Council For The Curriculum, Examination And Assessment

Countryside Recreation

Covenanter Residential Assoc Ltd

Craigavon & Distric H A

Craigavon BC

Dalriada School

Derry CC

Derry Investment Initiative

Derry Theatre Trust

Derry Visitor And Convention Bureau

Dominican College

Donacloney HA Ltd

Down & Connor HA Ltd

Down DC

Down District Citizens' Advice Bureau

Drumragh Integrated College

Dungannon DC

East Antrim Instit of FE

East Down Instit of FE

East Tyrone College of Fe

Engineering Training Council (NI) Ltd

Enniskillen Integrated P S

Enterprise Ulster

Erne Integrated College

Fermanagh College of Fe

Fermanagh DC

Filor HA Ltd

Fire Authority For NI

Flax H A Ltd

Fold H A

Fold Housing Trust

Foyle And L'derry College

Friends School

Gosford Housing Association

Grove H A Ltd

Habinteg H A (Ulster) Ltd

Hazelwood College

Hazelwood Integrated Ps

Hearth H A Ltd

Hunterhouse College

Integrated College Dgn

Jordanstown Schools

Lagan College

Laganside Corporation

Larne BC

Larne Grammar School

Limavady BC

Limavady College of Fe

Linen Hall Library

Lisburn BC

Lisburn Instit of FE

Lisnevin Management Board

Livestock & Meat Commission For NI

Local Government Staff Commission

Loreto College

Loreto Convent Grammar School Omagh

Lumen Christi College

Magherafelt DC

Malone College

Malone H A Ltd

Methodist College

Mill Strand Integrated Ps

Mourne Heritage Trust

Moyle DC

N I Federation of Housing Associations

North Eastern Education and Library Board

New Bridge Int. College

Newington H A (1975) Ltd

Newry & Mourne DC

Newry / Kilkeel College of FE

Newtownabbey BC

NI Association of Citizens' Advice Bureaux

NI Community Relations Council

NI Co-Ownership H A Ltd

NI Council For Integrated Education.

NI Fishery Harbour Authority

NI Hospice

NI Hotel & Catering College

NI Railway Company Ltd

NI Tourist Board

NI Transport Holding Company

Northern Ireland Housing Executive

NILGOSC

North & West Housing Ltd

North Coast Int. FE

North Down BC

North East Instit of FE

North West Instit of FE

Oakgrove Int. P.S

Oakgrove Integrated College

Oaklee H A

Omagh College of Fe

Omagh DC

Ormeau Baths Gallery

Our Lady & St Pat's College

Our Lady's Grammar School

Planetarium Armagh

Presbyterian H A (NI) Ltd

Probation Bd For NI

Rainey Endowed School

Rathgael Juvenile Justice Services

Rathmore Grammar School

Royal Belfast Academical Institution

Royal College of Nursing For NI

Royal School Armagh

Royal School Dungannon

Rural Development Council For NI

Rural H A

Sacred Heart Grammar School

South Eastern Education and Library Board

Southern Education and Library Board

Shimna Integrated College

Slemish Integ College

Sports Council For NI

St Columb's College

St Dominic's High School Belfast

St Joseph's Adolescent Centre

St Joseph's Gs

St Louis Grammar School

St Macnissi's College

St Malachy's College

St Mary's Christian Brothers Grammar School

St Mary's College of Education

St Mary's Grammar School

St Matthew's H A Ltd

St Michael's College

St Pat's Boys Academy

St Pat's Girls Academy Dgn

St Pat's Grammar School Downpatrick

St Pat's Training School & Glenmona Resource Centre

Staff Commission for Education And Library Boards

Strabane DC

Stranmillis College

Strathearn School

Students H A Co-Op Ltd

Sullivan Upper School

The Law Society For NI

Thornhill College

Ulidia H A Ltd

Ulsterbus Limited

United Dairy Farmers

University of Ulster

Upper Bann Instit of FE

Victoria College

Wallace High School

Western Education and Library Board

Woodvale & Shankill H A Ltd

Youth Council For NI

Youthnet

NI Human Rights Commission

Department of the Environment

NI Anti-Poverty Network

Gingerbread NI

Committee on the Administration of Justice

West Belfast Economic Forum

NI Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders

 

 

 

 


Appendix 2

 
Methodology for an Equality Impact Assessment

 

When undertaking impact assessments, NILGOSC will follow the process set out below. The results of all these steps, as well as an explanation of the policy under review, the elements of the policy subject to screening and the results of the screening will be included in the report on the impact assessment.

 

1.         Available data

 

            NILGOSC will examine any quantitative and qualitative data it already has, for example, age information.

 

2.         Comparative data

 

            NILGOSC will examine any available comparative data, for example, from other schemes in NI and the UK and other organisations providing similar services.  Where resources are available, NILGOSC may commission appropriate data.

 

3.         Consultation

 

            NILGOSC will consult with those listed at Appendix 1 and will make available any relevant documents, materials and public submissions.

 

4.         Impact assessments

 

            NILGOSC will examine the following questions in relation to the policy/service.

 

              *         Is there direct discrimination?

 

                          *         Is there an adverse impact in terms of the rights, resources, participation or values and norms?

 

              *         If not unlawful, is the difference justified (eg affirmative action)?

 

              *         Is there equality of opportunity?

 

5.         Alternatives

 

            NILGOSC will consider what alternatives are available to better achieve equality of opportunity.

 

6.         Mitigation of adverse impact

 

            NILGOSC will consider how it might mitigate the adverse impact and promote equality of opportunity.

 

7.         Decision by NILGOSC

 

A decision will only be taken as regards either the adoption of a new policy, or the acceptance of an existing policy, following the 6 steps listed above.

 

8.         Publication of Results of Equality Impact Assessment

 

A report on the results of the impact assessment will be made available (as per section 11) and distributed to those consulted, the Equality Commission and published on the NILGOSC website.

 

9.         Monitoring for adverse impact in the future

 

            NILGOSC will monitor its direct services and key policies for adverse impact in the future by the method set out in section 10.

 

 

 

 


Appendix 3

 

Compilation of the Equality Scheme - Consultation Process

 

 

1.         NILGOSC has based its Equality Scheme on the initial and finalised guidance produced by the Equality Commission, and has supplemented the guidance to reflect current practice within NILGOSC that complies with the Northern Ireland Act. The NILGOS Committee approved the draft Scheme in April 2000 which was circulated to the consultees shown in Annex A. The draft scheme was accompanied by an explanatory letter and a request for comments. This letter referred to the availability of alternative formats. The deadline for consultation was originally 7th June 2000 but this was subsequently extended to 14th July 2000 following advice from the Equality Commission.

 

2.         Consultation as regards screening of policies (if required) and impact assessments is with the list of consultees set out in Appendix 1. Consultation as regards the content of the Equality Scheme was deliberately wider to obtain comments on the proposed method of future consultation.

 

3.         Comments were received from those organisations shown in Annex A. They can be categorised as shown by the headings below. A summary of the main points and the action taken is also shown. A complete audit trail is available for inspection at NILGOSC.

 

3.1                   Generalised Comments

 

3.1.1   A number of respondents made general comments not specific to the NILGOSC scheme. These were considered in detail to identify any issues which would apply to NILGOSC. Many responses were designed for local authorities who consult with the wider general public however useful information was extracted and reflected in our own Scheme.

 

3.1.2   The Community Relations Council provided information recommending a Good Relations strategy. This has been included in the NILGOSC Scheme.

 

3.1.3   The Youth Council for Northern Ireland recommended Youth proofing our policies. This will be taken forward as part of the impact assessments and the communication/ consultation process.

 

3.1.4   The West Belfast Economic Forum made recommendations significantly on use of the Irish Language and economic opportunity. Alternative formats of the Scheme and all other consultation information will be available. As part of the impact assessment of policies NILGOSC will examine the format of Scheme information.

 

3.1.5   Down District Council was concerned that the scheme use bureaucratic language which we hope to solve by publishing a summary scheme. It also was concerned that the consultation period was too short, hence it has been increased to eight weeks.

 

3.1.6   The Coalition of Sexual Orientation made a number of generalised points. An important issue identified was that members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered community may not wish to be identified as such. This will be taken account of as part of consultation and the complaints process.

 

 

3.2                   Specific Comments on the Scheme

 

3.2.1   The Equality Commission, DOE, Down District Council, NIPSA, ICTU and Derry City Council made specific recommendations. Many recommendations, especially regarding the format of consultation and the availability of information have been accepted and reflected in the scheme.

3.2.2   Comments were made regarding the extent of the list of consultees. The copy of the draft scheme circulated to the list of consultees ( as at Annex A) did not include a note of this wider list of consultees and therefore the respondents were not aware of the initial consultation process. Those who responded on the issue of the consultee list at Appendix 1 did not comment that that list would not represent those included in the nine categories. Comments simply made the point that the extent of consultation did not reflect, word for word, the text of the Commission Guidance. The Scheme has been amended for matters relating to employment and procurement. NILGOSC believe that the list shown at Appendix 1 will ensure inclusion for all of the 9 categories.

3.2.3   A number of respondents recommended that the consultation period be increased from 4 to 8 weeks, that the scheme should have an introductory statement, that commitment to the necessary resources should be stated and that training should be for all staff. The Scheme has been amended accordingly.

 

3.3                   Compliance with Guidance

 

3.3.1   A number of respondents simply made the point that, in their view, the Scheme complied with the available guidance.

 

3.4                   Matters for Inclusion in Future Impact Assessments

 

3.4.1   A number of responses, including those from NILGOSC staff, referred to matters to be included as part of the screening and impact assessment procedures. These have been noted and will be included.

 

 

List of Consultees

 

Agricultural Research Instit of NI

Antrim BC

Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School

Ards BC

Ards Citizens' Advice Bureau

Armagh City & D C

Armagh College of FE

Armagh Observatory

Arts Council of NI

Association of Local Authorities

Ballymena Academy

Ballymena BC

Ballymoney BC

Ballynafeigh H A Ltd

Banbridge DC

Bangor Grammar School

Baptist HA Ltd

Belfast Education and Library Board

Belfast City Council

Belfast Charitable Society

Belfast Community H A

Belfast High School

Belfast Instit of FE

Belfast Print Workshop

Belfast Royal Academy

Belfast Visitor & Convention Bureau

BIH HA Ltd

Bloomfield Collegiate School

Braidside Integrated Primary And Nursery School

Bridge Integrated Ps

Campbell College

Carrickfergus BC

Castlereagh BC

Castlereagh College of FE

Causeway Instit of FE

Cedar Integ. P.S.

Choice HA Limited

Christian Brothers Grammar School – Omagh

Citybus Ltd

Clothing And Industrial Training Services

Coleraine Academical Institution

Coleraine BC

Coleraine Harbour Commissioners

Connswater Housing Association

Construction Industry Training Board

Convent Grammar School Enniskillen

Convent Grammar School Strabane

Cookstown DC

Council For Catholic Maintained Schools

Council For The Curriculum, Examination And Assessment

Countryside Recreation

Covenanter Residential Assoc Ltd

Craigavon & Distric H A

Craigavon BC

Dalriada School

Derry CC

Derry Investment Initiative

Derry Theatre Trust

Derry Visitor And Convention Bureau

Dominican College

Donacloney HA Ltd

Down & Connor HA Ltd

Down DC

Down District Citizens' Advice Bureau

Drumragh Integrated College

Dungannon DC

East Antrim Instit of FE

East Down Instit of FE

East Tyrone College of Fe

Engineering Training Council (NI) Ltd

Enniskillen Integrated P S

Enterprise Ulster

Erne Integrated College

Fermanagh College of Fe

Fermanagh DC

Filor HA Ltd

Fire Authority For NI

Flax H A Ltd

Fold H A

Fold Housing Trust

Foyle And L'derry College

Friends School

Gosford Housing Association

Grove H A Ltd

Habinteg H A (Ulster) Ltd

Hazelwood College

Hazelwood Integrated Ps

Hearth H A Ltd

Hunterhouse College

Integrated College Dgn

Jordanstown Schools

Lagan College

Laganside Corporation

Larne BC

Larne Grammar School

Limavady BC

Limavady College of Fe

Linen Hall Library

Lisburn BC

Lisburn Instit of FE

Lisnevin Management Board

Livestock & Meat Commission For NI

Local Government Staff Commission

Loreto College

Loreto Convent Grammar School Omagh

Lumen Christi College

Magherafelt DC

Malone College

Malone H A Ltd

Methodist College

Mill Strand Integrated Ps

Mourne Heritage Trust

Moyle DC

N I Federation of H A

North Eastern Education and Library Board

New Bridge Int. College

Newington H A (1975) Ltd

Newry & Mourne DC

Newry / Kilkeel College of FE

Newtownabbey BC

NI Association of Citizens' Advice Bureaux

NI Community Relations Council

NI Co-Ownership H A Ltd

NI Council For Integrated Educ

NI Fishery Harbour Authority

NI Hospice

NI Hotel & Catering College

NI Railway Company Ltd

NI Tourist Board

NI Transport Holding Company

NI Housing Executive

NILGOSC

North & West Housing Ltd

North Coast Int. CollegeFE

North Down BC

North East Instit of FE

North West Instit of FE

Oakgrove Int. P.S

Oakgrove Integrated College

Oaklee H A

Omagh College of Fe

Omagh DC

Ormeau Baths Gallery

Our Lady & St Pat's College

Our Lady's Grammar School

Planetarium Armagh

Presbyterian H A (NI) Ltd

Probation Bd For NI

Rainey Endowed School

Rathgael Juvenile Justice Services

Rathmore Grammar School

Royal Belfast Academical Institution

Royal College of Nursing For NI

Royal School Armagh

Royal School Dungannon

Rural Development Council For NI

Rural H A

Sacred Heart Grammar School

South Eastern Education and Library Board

Southern Education and Library Board

Shimna Integrated College

Slemish Integ College

Sports Council For NI

St Columb's College

St Dominic's High School Belfast

St Joseph's Adolescent Centre

St Joseph's Gs

St Louis Grammar School

St Macnissi's College

St Malachy's College

St Mary's Christian Brothers Grammar School

St Mary's College of Education

St Mary's Grammar School

St Matthew's H A Ltd

St Michael's College

St Pat's Boys Academy

St Pat's Girls Academy Dgn

St Pat's Grammar School Downpatrick

St Pat's Training School & Glenmona Resource Centre

Staff Commission For Education And Library Boards

Strabane DC

Stranmillis College

Strathearn School

Students H A Co-Op Ltd

Sullivan Upper School

The Law Society For NI

Thornhill College

Ulidia H A Ltd

Ulsterbus Limited

United Dairy Farmers

University of Ulster

Upper Bann Instit of FE

Victoria College

Wallace High School

Western Education and Library Board

Woodvale & Shankill H A Ltd

Youth Council For NI

Youthnet

Equality Commission for Northern Ireland

Community Relations Council

NI Committee of ICTU

NIPSA

NI Human Rights Commission

DOE

NI Council for Ethnic Minorities

Child Care NI

Help the Aged, NI

Coalition on Sexual Orientation

Disability Action

NI Anti-Poverty Network

Gingerbread NI

Committee on the Administration of Justice

West Belfast Economic Forum

Staff of NILGOSC

NIACRO

Public advertisement

 

Comments and Acknowledgements Received From

Agricultural Research Institute of NI

Ballymena BC

Banbridge DC

BELB

Belfast Royal Academy

Castlereagh College of Further Education

Translink

CCMS

Covenanter Residential Association

Craigavon BC

Derry CC

Down District Council

Enterprise Ulster

LMC

North Eastern Education and Library Board

Newry & Mourne DC

NI Council for Intergrated Education

NI Fishery Harbour Authority

NI Tourist Board

Omagh College of Further Education

South Eastern Education and Library Board

Southern Education and Library Board

United Dairy Farmers

Youth Council for NI

Woodvale and Shankill HA Ltd

Equality Commission

Community Relations Council

 

Department of the Environment

West Belfast Economic Forum

NILGOSC Staff

NI Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders

NI Public Sector Alliance

NI Council for Ethnic Minorities

NI Committee of ICTU

Coalition on Sexual Orientation

Committee on the Administration of Justice

Royal National Institute for Deaf People

Construction Industry Training Board

Belfast City Council