The following is taken from Chapter 4 of the 2011 Equality Scheme.
What is a policy?
4.1 In the context of Section 75, ‘policy’ is very broadly defined and it covers all the ways in which the Board will carry out or propose to carry out our functions in relation to Northern Ireland. In respect of this Scheme, the term policy is used for any (proposed/amended/existing) strategy, policy initiative or practice and/or decision, whether written or unwritten and irrespective of the label given to it, e.g. ‘draft’, ‘pilot’, ‘high level’ or ‘sectoral’.
4.2 In making any decision with respect to a policy adopted or proposed to be adopted, the Board will take into account any assessment and consultation carried out in relation to the policy, as required by Schedule 9 para.9. (2) of the Act.
4.3 The Board uses the tools of Screening and Equality Impact Assessment to assess the likely impact of a policy on the promotion of equality of opportunity and good relations. In carrying out these assessments the Board will relate them to the intended outcomes of the policy in question and will also follow:
• the guidance on screening, as detailed in the Equality Commission’s Guidance ‘Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 - A Guide for Public Authorities (April 2010)’ and the inter-Board/Staff Commission ‘Equality Screening Toolkit’ developed in consultation with consultees on our mail list; and
• on undertaking an Equality Impact Assessment, the Equality Commission’s detailed guidance ‘Practical Guidance on Equality Impact Assessment (February 2005)’
4.28 The Board will monitor any adverse impact on the promotion of equality of opportunity in the policies it has adopted. The Board is also committed to monitoring more broadly to identify opportunities to better promote equality of opportunity and good relations in line with Equality Commission guidance.
4.32 Schedule 9 para.4 (2) (d) requires the Board to publish the results of the monitoring of adverse impacts of policies we have adopted. However, we are committed to monitoring more broadly and the results of our policy monitoring are published.
4.33 EQIA monitoring information is published as part of the Board’s Section 75 Annual Progress Report (see 2.16).
4.34 Monitoring information is also published and made available on the Board’s website; www.neeb.org.uk
4.35 All information published is accessible and can be made available in alternative formats including in large print, in Braille, by e-mail, on computer disc, on audio-cassette and in minority languages to meet the needs of those people who are not fluent in English, on request from the Equality Officer. Contact details are set out at paragraph 2.5, page 4.
For further information please consult the 2011 Equality Scheme available on our website: www.neelb.org.uk
