The Equality Authority has welcomed the European Parliament’s adoption of the proposals by Dutch Green MEP Kathalijne Buitenweg, which extends discrimination protection beyond the labour market to goods and services for the discrimination grounds of sexual orientation, disability, age and religion/belief.

‘Ireland has led the way in providing protection against discrimination and harassment for these groups when accessing goods, facilities, services, education and accommodation, for almost a decade. The Equal Status Acts have been an important tool in improving access to goods and services in Ireland during that time. I hope the proposal will now be adopted and implemented during the Swedish Presidency of the EU, so that all citizens across the EU can enjoy an equivalence of rights, that we have had in Ireland for almost a decade’ said Angela Kerins, Chairperson.

‘The business case for the extension of this protection to rid the market place of barriers to doing good business, has been well documented in Ireland . The more people have unhindered access to goods and services, the more economic activity can be stimulated and this in turn can benefit business in challenging times” she added.

“The passing of such an important proposal represents a ‘win-win’ for service providers and customers alike. It reminds us of the vital influence the European Union institutions have had, and the important role they continue to play in ensuring equality of opportunity in the workplace and now in accessing goods and services” concluded Angela Kerins.

ENDS