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<p>The Northern Ireland Office takes its responsibilities under Fair Employment legislation
very seriously and seeks to ensure a good and harmonious working environment for all
staff; the requirements of which are set out in the 1989 Fair Employment Code of Practice.</p><p>
</p><p>In line with the Equality Commission of Northern Ireland’s Guide, Promoting
a Good and Harmonious Working Environment, the Northern Ireland Office is sensitive
to the display of “posters, pictures, portraits or other displays that are more closely
associated with one or other of the communities” and will consider any concerns raised
by employees. I can confirm that the department takes steps to ensure no such images
are displayed in Stormont House</p><p> </p><p>Information on employees’ personal data
is sensitive, in order to comply with DPA requirements, and so I am unable to comment
further. In line with the rest of the Civil Service, our staff need to be able to
raise concerns in a confidential manner and without fear of repercussions.</p><p>
</p><p>In relation to the Northern Ireland Assembly, I would refer the noble Lord
to the Clerk/ Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Assembly.</p>
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