Public Sector Equality and Human Rights
As a public body, SETU is guided by Section 42 of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014, which places a duty on us to:
- Eliminate discrimination
- Promote equality of opportunity and treatment for staff, students, and all stakeholders
- Protect human rights in every aspect of our operations
Our Public Sector Equality and Human Rights Duty Report 2024 reflect these commitments and aligns with SETU’s strategic direction. Both our Strategic Plan, Connecting for Impact (2023–2028) and the SETU EDI Strategic Plan 2024–2029 identify Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) - along with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) - as key drivers of meaningful and lasting institutional transformation.
Equality Impact Assessment (EIA)
SETU uses the Equality Impact Assessment (EIA) Form to ensure that our policies, processes, and everyday practices respect human rights and advance equality.
The EIA process supports staff in identifying and addressing relevant human rights and equality considerations across the nine protected grounds.
Supporting documents to guide staff include:
- SETU Equality Impact Assessment Form
- Guidelines for Completing the SETU EIA Form
- Completed EIA Example – Managing Probationary Period Policy
- Completed EIA Example – SETU Student Attendance Monitoring
Evidence-Based Assessment of the SETU EDI Strategic Plan 2024–2029
SETU has completed an Evidence-Based Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Assessment of its EDI Strategic Plan 2024–2029. This assessment forms a core part of SETU’s commitment to meeting its obligations under the Public Sector Equality and Human Rights Duty and to embedding equality, diversity and human rights across all areas of the University’s work.
Overview
Purpose of the Assessment
The purpose of this Evidence-Based Assessment was to identify the key equality, diversity and human rights issues relevant to South East Technological University (SETU), and to examine how effectively the EDI Strategic Plan 2024–2029 responds to these issues through clear, evidence-informed actions. The assessment ensures that the Strategic Plan is grounded in data, consultation, and best practice, and that it supports positive outcomes for all members of the SETU community.
Scope of the Assessment
The assessment considers all protected characteristics as outlined under Section 42 of the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission Act 2014, as well as socio-economic status. It is structured around the six strategic priority areas of the SETU EDI Strategic Plan 2024–2029 and assesses the extent to which each priority addresses identified equality and human rights risks, barriers, and opportunities.
The process involved reviewing relevant quantitative and qualitative data, policy and legislative requirements, and feedback from engagement and consultation activities. This evidence informed the identification of priority issues and the development of targeted, measurable actions within the EDI Strategic Plan.
The completed Evidence-Based Assessment demonstrates SETU’s commitment to transparency, accountability and continuous improvement in advancing equality, diversity and inclusion.