Geraldine McGahey

The Commission also found failures to comply with its equality scheme commitments in relation to three policies for recruitment, redeployment and performance related pay and CCEA policies more generally.  Weaknesses in its arrangements for staff training in relation to its equality scheme commitments were also found.

The investigation followed a complaint by an individual and was carried out under Paragraph 10 of Schedule 9 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.

Geraldine McGahey, chief commissioner, Equality Commission for Northern Ireland said: “Section 75 duties are important and should be carefully considered by all public authorities who are required to do so by law. This investigation found failures in the Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s approach to its compliance with Section 75.

“Public authorities must ensure that they implement the arrangements they have committed to in their equality schemes, including how they assess and monitor the impact of staff policies on equality of opportunity.

“The Commission has recommended that the Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment complete a review of its equality scheme within six months. In addition, we have also recommended that CCEA develop and deliver a 3-year training plan for staff closely involved in the delivery of its Section 75 responsibilities and renew its commitment to undertake screening, and where necessary, equality impact assessments at the earliest stage of its policy development process.”

CCEA has accepted the findings of the investigation and the recommendations made by the Commission.