Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland
Statement by TUV Equality spokesperson Ann McClure:
“Following confirmation that the Civil Service is taking part in this year’s Belfast Pride parade, Timothy Gaston tabled a number of questions to Finance Minister John O’Dowd raising serious concerns about the ramifications of this approach for the impartiality of public servants.
“On inquiring whether consideration was given to the views of civil servants (Protestant or Roman Catholic) who hold conscientious or faith-based objections to participation in Belfast Pride, the Minister responded in very general terms, outlining the NICS commitment to inclusivity, equality, and impartiality — but significantly did not address the actual question of whether there was any consultation, engagement, or accommodation for people who object to Pride.
“In another question, Mr Gaston asked the Minister if, in light of Civil Service participation in Pride, employees would be able to participate in pro-life marches. Mr O’Dowd merely referred Mr Gaston back to his previous non-answer.
“In light of the events of the weekend — when grossly offensive behaviour at and around Omagh Pride not only took place but was promoted on the official Facebook page of Omagh Pride — there is a need for the Civil Service and the Minister responsible to directly address the matters raised with him and not hide behind newspeak answers.
“Participation in Pride events was never compatible with a truly inclusive workplace. That is all the more true this year when the Pride movement is openly campaigning against the Executive’s policy to protect children and young people from puberty blockers.”
Note to editors
Mr Gaston’s questions and the answers received are as follows:
AQW 28291/22-27
Mr Timothy Gaston
Question:
To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any consideration given to the views of civil servants, both Protestant and Roman Catholic, who hold conscientious or faith-based objections to Belfast Pride when the Northern Ireland Civil Service made the decision to participate in this year’s event.
Answer:
As one of the largest employers here and a public service provider, the Civil Service recognises and respects the diversity of people’s identities, experiences and backgrounds.
As an equal opportunities employer, the Civil Service participates in Belfast Pride as part of its ongoing commitment to being an inclusive employer and programme of outreach with under-represented groups.
In accordance with the Civil Service Code of Ethics, civil servants are required to carry out their role with dedication and a commitment to the Civil Service’s core values of: Integrity, Honesty, Objectivity and Impartiality.
In living out the core value of ‘impartiality’, civil servants must carry out their responsibilities in a way that is fair, just and equitable and reflects the Civil Service’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, including the obligations under Section 75.
AQW 28289/22-27
Mr Timothy Gaston
Question:
To ask the Minister of Finance, in light of the Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) decision to participate corporately in Belfast Pride, whether NICS staff will be permitted, as NICS staff, to take part in other events such as pro-life marches.
Answer:
I refer the member to the response provided for AQW 28291/22-27.