Package launched to promote mutal respect in workplace

Head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, Nigel Hamilton has today launched a new training package designed to raise diversity awareness among civil servants.

Speaking at the launch of the Northern Ireland Civil Service Diversity Awareness training package, which coincided with the commencement of Anti-Racist Workplace Week, Mr Hamilton said: “The core theme for Anti-Racist workplace week is integration in the workplace. Effective integration can only be achieved by developing the skills, knowledge and awareness of staff so that they can perform effectively in culturally diverse workplaces.

“The launch of today’s training package will ensure that Civil Servants have the insights, as well as the knowledge and the skills, which they need, to continue to serve our changing society.”

The training package which was produced locally, includes alternative classroom and e-learning modules, incorporating locally filmed video material.

The Package is to be made available to all staff in the Civil Service as well as being made available, free of charge, to any employer who can make use of it to improve awareness in their own workplace.

Mr Hamilton concluded: “As Northern Ireland becomes more culturally diverse so too is the Civil Service. The launch of this training package will contribute to the diversity awareness of Civil Servants ensuring that as employees they welcome, honour and respect customers of all cultures and each other.”

(EF)