WIREDGOV

The draft scheme sets out how the Assembly Government will promote diversity and equality over the next three years as an integral part of the way it does business and how it will assess the impact of its work on different groups. It builds on a previous consultation carried out earlier this year on the framework and priorities for a Single Equality Scheme.

Dr Gibbons said:

Meeting the needs of the citizens of Wales is at the heart of the Scheme. We welcome the views of the public on our plans to target inequalities and promote equality over the next three years.

Producing flexible policies and services that meet the needs of a more diverse and integrated population is a key part of the scheme. The Minister said that in order to improve services it is important to look at people as individuals with differing needs who might face multiple disadvantages.

Dr Gibbons said:

I believe that there is an appetite to deliver better services and better policies for the citizens of Wales. To do that, we need to understand and value the diverse people that make up Welsh communities.

I recognise that this Scheme is being produced at a time of change in equality law. We believe that we are embarking on a dynamic and exciting journey and the Scheme provides us with a solid foundation for change.

The Minister said that an important part of the Scheme is to ensure that fairness, respect, equality and dignity are promoted in the work of the Welsh Assembly Government.

He added:

The equalities agenda is for everyone. Our demographic profile is changing. There are shifts in patterns of migration; raised awareness about different identities, faiths and cultures and an increase in numbers of people with long term illness and disability. This, together with changes in life circumstances and preferred working practices means, that we have to look again at the causes of disadvantage and ways to deal with the differences between us.

This draft Scheme provides the opportunities to do this. It will be a major driver for the changes that is necessary to ensure that equality of opportunity for all citizens in Wales becomes a reality rather than an aspiration.

Copies of the consultation document and action plans can obtained by email at: ehrd@wales.gsi.gov.uk